Erzbischöfliches Studienheim St. Fidelis, Catholic educational complex in Sigmaringen, Germany
The Erzbischöfliches Studienheim St. Fidelis is a three-wing building complex on the edge of Sigmaringen featuring modernist architectural design from the 1930s. The complex contains classrooms, dormitory sections, and its own chapel arranged in a structured institutional layout.
The seminary was founded in 1856 when Pastor Thomas Geiselhart purchased the birthhouse of saint Fidelis and began operations with eleven students. After nearly 150 years as an educational institution, it was converted into a psychiatric facility in 2004.
The name St. Fidelis refers to the local saint Fidelis of Sigmaringen, whose birthplace formed the foundation of this complex. Visitors can sense the religious character and monastic structure that defined this location during its years as a seminary.
The building sits on the edge of town and remains accessible from the outside, though it now operates as a private medical facility. Visitors should be aware that access to the grounds may be restricted and should inquire in advance about visiting possibilities.
During World War II, the complex was converted into a military hospital, allowing the institution to survive and avoid complete takeover by the Nazi regime. This adaptation became a turning point that enabled the facility to continue operating through the war years.
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