Dominican Convent, Dominican convent in Ilanz, Switzerland
The Dominican Convent sits on the left bank of the Rhine in the Sankt Niklaus district of Ilanz and houses a church with seating for around 300 people. The complex now functions as a House of Encounters, offering meeting rooms, overnight accommodations, and spaces dedicated to retreats and educational programs.
The sister community was founded in 1865 by Johann Fidel Depuoz and Sister Maria Theresia Gasteyer, dedicating themselves to advancing education and supporting social welfare. The site became an important center for local communities in the region.
The convent church displays stained glass windows by Max Ruedi and features an altar made from regional Cristallina marble, reflecting the artistic heritage of the place. These crafted elements shape the interior and tell of the creative tradition established here.
The grounds are straightforward to access and house various areas suited to different activities, from meetings to spiritual stays. It is best to check in advance which spaces are available and when the property is open for visitors.
In 1964, Sister Anita Derungs created the first biblical story figures here, which later became known worldwide as Egli figures. These handcrafted dolls revolutionized religious education and are still used in many schools today.
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