The name Einsiedeln derives from a certain Einsiedler Meinrad who retreated into solitude in the forest and was slain by robbers in 861. The sites where he lived in the dark woods came to be revered. A capitular from Strassburg named Benno settled here in 910 followed by Eberhard, also of Strassburg. Eberhard founded a convent into which he initiated the hermits of the dark forest to the monastic life style according to the dictates of Saint Benedict.

The first church was dedicated in 948, destroyed by fire in 1031 and rebuilt in the years 1031 to 1039. The basic shape of this house of worship remained until the Baroque and served as a foundation for all later constructions.

In addition to its extensive construction legacy the historical pilgrimage church of Einsiedeln has a long history of organs. It was a fundamental element of the the Benedictine order to celebrate mass with elegant pageantry, of which excellent organs were an essential part. This tradition continues to be cultivated by today’s convent sovereigns.

	The Choir Organ
	The Marian Organ
	The Student's Chapel Organ
	The Mauritius Organ
	The portable Positive Organ in the Festival Hall of the Benedictine Abbey