The Dominican Order
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Arrival and Foundation
The Dominican Order came to Friesach in 1217, just two years after its founding in Toulouse in 1215.
In the area known as the “Sack”—today the site of the Seminary Church—they built the first Dominican monastery in the German-speaking world. The community was founded by St Hyacinth of Opole, a close follower of St Dominic.
The Monastery and Its Church
As the community grew, the Dominicans moved to a new site outside the town wall. Between 1265 and 1300, they built a large new monastery and church. This became the longest church in Carinthia, showing the strength and importance of the Order in medieval Friesach.
Faith and Learning
The Dominicans were known for their preaching and teaching. They followed scholastic philosophy, combining faith with reason, and strongly supported the Pope.
Famous Dominicans such as Albertus Magnus and Thomas Aquinas helped spread the ideas and influence of the Order throughout Europe.
Decline and Renewal
In the 19th century, the monastery was nearly closed, as happened to many others at the time.
Later, Dominican nuns from Lienz took over the site.
In 1890, Dominican friars returned to Friesach, reviving the Order’s long tradition in the town.
