Franciscan Abbey Engelberg

The origins of Engelberg, once known as “Rulesberg,” lie in a pre-Christian cult site, of which the “Hünenstein” still bears witness today. Around 1300, a first wooden chapel was built, dedicated to the Archangel Michael. In the early 14th century, around 1310, a statue of Mary was added, which is still revered today as a miraculous image of grace. The dual veneration of Michael and Mary forms the core of the pilgrimage, whose oldest documented mention of a chapel in need of repair but heavily visited dates back to 1406.