From a simple farmer to a revered saint, the Klaus von Flüe Sculpture here in Vienna commemorates a life that intertwined the ordinary with the extraordinary. Nicholas of Flüe, born in 1417 in Switzerland, lived a multifaceted life. He was a farmer, a soldier, a political figure, and ultimately, a mystic and hermit. The sculpture serves as a reminder of his significant contributions to Swiss history and his enduring legacy as a symbol of peace and unity. Nicholas of Flüe’s journey began as a farmer, but his path soon led him to the battlefield. He served as a soldier and even rose to the rank of captain. He reportedly fought with a sword in one hand and a rosary in the other, a testament to his divided world. Later, he transitioned into political life, serving as a councillor and judge. Despite his accomplishments, he declined the opportunity to become governor, his heart yearning for a different calling. A vision prompted Nicholas of Flüe to abandon his worldly life and embrace a life of contemplation. He left his wife and ten children with her consent, seeking a spiritual path. He established a hermitage and dedicated himself to prayer and fasting. It is said he fasted for nearly twenty years, surviving only on the Eucharist. His reputation for wisdom spread far and wide. People from all walks of life sought his advice, recognizing him as a man of profound spiritual insight. The Klaus von Flüe Sculpture captures his essence: a humble man of simple origins who rose to become a national icon and a revered saint. His influence extended far beyond his hermitage. He played a crucial role in preventing a civil war between the Swiss cantons, mediating a peaceful resolution that solidified the nation’s unity. His wisdom and piety were acknowledged even by the Pope, who granted indulgences to the sanctuary at his hermitage, which became a pilgrimage site. The Klaus von Flüe Sculpture stands as a testament to his life, a life that reminds us that even from humble beginnings, one can achieve greatness and contribute to the betterment of society.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to