St. Loreto

In the charming town of Schwäbisch Gmünd in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, lies the historic and educational gem known as St. Loreto. This extensive school complex, nestled in the Wildeck area, is a testament to the town's rich history and dedication to education and social welfare. St. Loreto stands on the grounds of the former Capuchin monastery of St. Ulrich, which was secularized and demolished in 1810, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the site's storied past.

The Origins of St. Loreto

The story of St. Loreto begins with Kaplan Sebastian Zeiler, who purchased the property for 8,000 guilders. His vision was to provide a home for the Sisters of Mercy from Strasbourg, who sought to establish their motherhouse in Schwäbisch Gmünd. However, the motherhouse was ultimately set up in Bocksgasse 20, and the site in Wildeck was transformed into the St. Vinzenz Healing or Insane Asylum, which opened its doors on February 1, 1864.

The building, designed by Oberbaurat Georg von Morlok in Stuttgart and constructed by Bauinspektor Neker from Aalen, served as a private Catholic asylum. It also functioned as a regional mental institution until 1898. At that time, the asylum was relocated to Rottweil-Rottenmünster, now known as the Vinzenz-von-Paul-Hospital. The move was a major logistical operation, involving 94 patients who traveled by special train to their new home.

The Transformation into an Educational Institution

With the departure of the asylum, the Sisters of Mercy repurposed the site to house a domestic science school, which moved from Bocksgasse to Wildeck. The school was named St. Loreto, inspired by the Marian image from the House of Loreto. Around the year 1900, the complex also hosted a Marienheim for working-class girls until 1902, when a dedicated building on Paradiesstraße 20 was completed.

St. Loreto continued to evolve, and by 1918, it had expanded its educational offerings to include training for kindergarten teachers. The St. Paul Kindergarten, which opened in the Loretogarten in 1902, still operates today under the care of the Sisters of Mercy, along with the Rupert Mayer daycare center.

In 1926, Georg Stütz described the multifaceted use of St. Loreto: a boarding school for the daughters of the Sisters of Mercy, a private teachers' seminar, a kindergarten teachers' seminar, a sewing school, and the St. Paul Kindergarten. During World War I, a large portion of the building was converted into a reserve hospital. The building once again served as a hospital during World War II, accommodating 350 beds and becoming the largest hospital in Schwäbisch Gmünd. On April 20, 1945, U.S. troops seized the buildings, but they were returned to the order on April 30, 1946.

Modern-Day St. Loreto

Today, St. Loreto has evolved into a modern educational institution. Since March 7, 2011, it has been known as St. Loreto gGmbH, the Institute for Social Professions in Schwäbisch Gmünd and Ellwangen. This Catholic institution offers a wide range of vocational training and continuing education programs in social and nursing professions. It has expanded its reach with new social education schools in Aalen (2012) and Ludwigsburg (2013).

The institution's shareholders include the Sisters of Mercy of St. Vincent de Paul in Untermarchtal, the Franz von Assisi Society (with the Gmünder Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration as the largest shareholder), Marienpflege Ellwangen, the Haus Lindenhof Foundation, and the Catholic parish of Ludwigsburg. On January 17, 2017, the name was simplified to St. Loreto, Institute for Social Professions, reflecting its broader geographic reach and continued commitment to its educational mission.

Exploring St. Loreto

Visitors to St. Loreto will find a blend of historical architecture and modern facilities. The buildings, with their stately facades and well-preserved structures, offer a glimpse into the past while housing state-of-the-art educational facilities. The spire of the old chapel, a remnant of the site's monastic origins, stands as a silent witness to the many transformations the site has undergone.

The modern educational complex is a hub of activity, with students and educators dedicated to social and nursing professions. The campus is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Sisters of Mercy and their commitment to education and social welfare. The institution's mission is reflected in its motto, which emphasizes the importance of compassion, care, and professional excellence.

A Visit to Schwäbisch Gmünd

While in Schwäbisch Gmünd, visitors should take the time to explore the town's rich history and cultural heritage. The Heilig-Kreuz-Münster, located nearby, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and one of the town's most significant landmarks. The town's charming streets, historic buildings, and vibrant community make it a delightful destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and education.

In conclusion, St. Loreto in Schwäbisch Gmünd is more than just a school; it is a symbol of the town's dedication to education, social welfare, and the preservation of its rich history. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an education professional, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to St. Loreto offers a unique and enriching experience that showcases the best of Schwäbisch Gmünd's past and present.