Antonius Monastery

St. Anthony's Convent is a three-storey brick building. It is a convent of the "Franciscan Sisters of Penance and Christian Charity", whose order was founded on May 10, 1835 in Heythuysen in the Netherlands by Catharina Damen - her religious name was Sister Magdalena.

The foundation stone of the convent was laid in 1895, it was consecrated the following year and a school section was added in 1904/1905. The school began operating as early as 1894, at that time still in a residential building in Münsterstraße as a "Catholic Girls' School". It initially started with 22 pupils, but by 1901 there were 102. Three years later, a so-called training school for prospective teachers was established. The girls' school was transferred to municipal sponsorship in 1975 and became a municipal grammar school.

Today, around 40 sisters live in the convent. The Franciscan nuns value the diversity of cultures, which is why international visitors are not uncommon at the provincial house in Lüdinghausen. In addition, there are many offers for women, such as temporary convent stays, retreat days or spiritual guidance. Groups can also take a look behind the monastery walls.

The Antoniushaus retirement home was built in the former monastery garden around 20 years ago. Sisters work there in care, nursing and administration.

The name of St. Anthony's Monastery goes back to the Franciscan monk "Anthony of Padua", who lived in the 13th century. He became famous for his rousing and witty teaching and preaching.