Augustinerkloster Zürich

The Augustinerkloster was a significant monastic institution of the Augustinian Order situated within the medieval city of Zürich, Switzerland. Founded around 1270, it was established as a priory on the site that now hosts the Augustinerkirche Zürich on Münzplatz. The monastery played a role in the city's defense, being integrated into its fortifications, with structures such as the Augustinertor gate and Augustinerturm tower forming part of its western section.

History and Significance

The Augustinian monks were permitted to settle in the western part of the city, contributing to the construction of the city walls in return for land. The monastery complex initially comprised the present Romanesque church and an adjoining building complex to its north. By the 14th century, the Augustinians' financial activities, such as collecting income from funerals, were increasingly regulated and had to be coordinated with the Grossmünster abbey. This led to the Augustinians, like other mendicant orders, being reduced to the status of local pastors within the city.

During the Reformation in Zürich, the convent was abolished in 1524. Worship in the church ceased, and the monastery's assets were transferred to a municipal administration. Subsequently, the buildings were repurposed, including use as a wine press and an alms institution, before being integrated into the Rütiamt. The Augustinerkirche, however, has continued as a parish church to the present day, notably serving the Christkatholische Kirche der Schweiz after a schism in the Catholic community.

Buildings and Legacy

The monastery complex featured a rectangular four-bay wing that later housed the Rütiamt and the Augustinerturm gate. A transverse wing served as the refectory. The Augustinerkirche itself, with its nave and chancel under a single roof, is a key surviving element. The monastery was also known for its stained glass windows; some were acquired by the Gottfried Keller Foundation and are now entrusted to the Swiss National Museum. The street Augustinergasse and the Augustinerkirche are named in memory of this former Augustinian priory.