Bruder Klaus
Niklaus von Flüe, also known by the name “Brother Klaus”, lived in the heart of Europe in the alpine region now known as Obwalden. He was a peasant who worked a farm in Flüeli, in the area of the municipality of Sachseln. In 1447 Niklaus married Dorothea Wyss, who is thought to have been from Stalden.
On 16 October 1467, at the age of 50, he left his family. He first wanted to head out into the world as a pilgrim, but he turned back before reaching Liestal (canton of Baselland), headed towards home and spent some time on Chlisterli Alp. Eventually he headed back downstream along the Melchaa Gorge and from then on lived in Ranft, just ten minutes’ walk from his family home
The hermit died on 21 March 1487 and was buried in Sachseln. His remains can be found in the Pfarrkirche, or Parish Church, in a silver sarcophagus beneath the celebration altar.
- Birthplace in the village centre. Oldest house in Switzerland. Admission free. Information in accordance with opening times. Guided tours on request.
- Place of residence directly by the entrance to the hotel pergola. Opening times morning and afternoon based on advance notice given. Admission free.
- Ranft cell: Brother Klaus lived here as a hermit for 20 years. At the entrance to the hotel pergola head down towards the Melchaa, 7 minutes’ walk.
- Upper Ranft Chapel built in 1701. Built directly adjoining the cell.
- Lower Ranft Chapel built between 1469 and 1501. Magnificent images of the life of Brother Klaus.
- Visions Trail: this trail is both a walking and a meditation route. It begins thematically in Flüeli-Ranft at the birthplace of Brother Klaus and ends at the Burial Chapel in Sachseln. 6 metal sculptures depict the visions of Brother Klaus and thus his physical and spiritual journey through life. Approx. 45 minutes, medium level of difficulty. Highly recommended.
- Way of Brother Klaus: recommended, beautiful route from Flüeli-Ranft to Stans, approx. 4.5 hours, smaller stages possible, return journey with public transport, begin at Ranft.
You can get a good overview of the life and works of the mystic Niklaus von Flüe in the newly published guide Bruder Klaus – ein internationaler Friedensheiliger (“Nicholas of Flüe – Brother Nicholas: Saint of Peace throughout the World”) by Dr Lothar E Keiser.