One of the last inhabited hermitages in Europe

Hermits then and now

A small chapel was also set up as his personal building. The hermits made themselves of service especially at night as a fire patrol. As soon as they noticed a fire, they rang the bell. In return for this service, they were given official authorisation to collect contributions from the municipalities of Saalfelden, Maria Alm, Leogang, Weißbach, St. Martin and Lofer.

Although hermitism was banned in the early 19th Century, in Saalfelden the tradition - in contrast to most other hermitages – was not overturned. Hence, even today, when one hermit leaves, there are always enough candidates to take his place. They are sworn in by the mayor and installed by Saalfelden parish priest. They receive no salary either from the municipality or from the church. The hermit must be able to shift for his own livelihood.

Currently, our hermitage wonderfully looked after by Stan Vanuytrecht during the summer months!

Contact information

Further information:
http://www.saalfelden-leogang.com/de/region/kun...

Sports provider Saalfelden - Leogang
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