©Commune de Hosingen

Women’s convent in Hosingen

Discover the echoes of time in Hosingen's ancient Augustinian convent, a sanctuary of nobility and learning from its enigmatic origins to poignant its dissolution. Its walls resonate with Luxembourg's rich heritage!

The Augustinian convent of Hosingen stood as a bastion of faith and education for centuries in the heart of the village. It served as both a sanctuary and a center of learning, nurturing the spiritual and intellectual growth of noble daughters from affluent families.

Founded during the reign of Emperor Henry IV in the 11th century, the exact date of its establishment remains unknown due to the loss of its founding charter. Led by the Abbess Sara von Spanheim, the monastery flourished, providing not only religious services but also education for its residents and the local community.

However, the monastery faced turbulent times, notably during the tenure of Abbess Irmengard von Stolzemburg, when Burgundian forces besieged and razed the convent during regional conflicts. Despite adversities, the Augustinian convent endured, nurturing generations of devout women until its dissolution in 1784 by Emperor Joseph II's decree.

With the dissolution came the end of an era, as the convent's assets were auctioned off, and its noble inhabitants were dispersed. The former convent church transitioned into a parish church, symbolizing the shift in its purpose from contemplative solitude to communal worship.

Yet, the monastery's halls bore witness to more than just religious rites. During the Peasants’ War of 1798, the church became a refuge for peasants turned warriors, who valiantly defended their way of life against Napoleonic forces, armed only with their artisan tools and fervent spirit.

Today, the echoes of the convent's rich history resonate through the renovated halls, now home to regional social services.

Contact

Address: Frauenkloster in Hosingen
L-9806 Hosingen
Show on map

More sites

The Statue of the Virgin Mary in Esch-sur-Sûre
High above Esch-sur-Sûre, the Statue of the Virgin Mary watches over the village. A historic site offering stunning views.
Find out more
©Visit Éislek
Memorial Parc Hosingen
The Memorial Parc Hosingen commemorates the events of the Second World War in and around the village, highlighting their significance at several memorial sites.
Find out more
©Visit Éislek
Bourscheid Hougeriicht – High justice
In the 15th or 16th century, a witch trial in Bourscheid unfolded with accusations of devilish pacts and plots against God's creation. This dark chapter mirrors a broader era of witch hunts in Luxembourg, fueled by societal turmoil, economic struggles, and the fear of a mysterious witchcraft sect.
Find out more
©Visit Éislek
Kalborn Mill
The mill in Kalborn, which is over 200 years old, has developed into a nature conservation centre. Endangered river pearl and brook mussels are bred here. Information boards in front of the mill show how gardens can provide habitats for wildlife and insects.
Find out more
©Jängel Klasen
Veiner Gare – Former Trainstation
Nestled along the River Our, the town of Vianden once boasted a unique railway connection – the "Benny Express." This narrow-gauge line operated from 1889 to 1948, linking Vianden with Diekirch's main railway, a vital step in making the town more accessible to tourists.
Find out more
Decanal church
The Wiltz Deanery Church has two naves and was built at many periods, repeatedly destroyed, enlarged and altered. A visit provides an insight into the building's turbulent past.
Find out more
©Visit Luxembourg
Thematic paths
Sculpture Trail Lultzhausen
Distance: 2,92 km
Duration: 0:50 h
Difficulty: easy
Find out more
©Naturpark Oewersauer, Naturpark Oewersauer
Circular routes
Schumannseck 1944-1945 Memorial Path
Distance: 3,09 km
Duration: 0:50 h
Difficulty: easy
Find out more
Saint-Michel Chapel
The Saint-Michel Chapel towers high above Oberschlinder, surrounded by forest and accessible via hiking trails.
Find out more

Take a journey into the past

Schleif Winsler
©Visit Éislek

Rediscovering past heritage in the Éislek

The LEADER project ‘Time Travel’ brings the history of Éislek to life in a special way.

Read all time travel stories