La Valsainte Charterhouse

The monastery buildings incorporate architectural elements from different periods, with the main structure dating from 1729 and additional sections from the nineteenth century.

Founded in 1295 by Girard I of Corbières, the monastery experienced multiple transitions, including destruction by fire in 1381 and serving as refuge for Trappist monks during French Revolution.

The monastery maintains traditional Carthusian practices where monks live in individual cells, following strict routines of prayer, study, and manual work in complete silence.

Located at coordinates 46.649278, 7.188653 in the Gruyère district of Fribourg canton, the monastery remains closed to visitors except for its public chapel.

The monastery stands as Switzerland's only functioning Carthusian establishment, housing approximately fifteen monks from various nations who maintain medieval contemplative traditions.

Location: Val-de-Charmey

Inception: 1295

Part of: list of cultural properties in Val-de-Charmey

Address: Route de la Valsainte(120), 122, (122a-d,122f, 122h-g), 1645 Cerniat 1654

GPS coordinates: 46.64928,7.18865

Latest update: May 17, 2025 10:26