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Historic site · Bernkastel-Kues, Renânia-Palatinado
St. Nikolaus-Hospital (Cusanusstift)
Gothic hospice founded in 1458 by the cardinal and philosopher Nicolau de Cusa, born in Kues. It has a cloister, a chapel containing the founder's heart and a library of medieval manuscripts, and it still functions as a home for the elderly.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About St. Nikolaus-Hospital (Cusanusstift)
The St.-Nikolaus-Hospital, also called Cusanusstift, is in Kues on the left bank of the Mosela, next to the bridge. It was founded on 3 December 1458 by Cardinal Nicolau de Cusa, a philosopher, theologian and scientist born in Kues, as a shelter for 33 poor men, a number that recalls the years of Christ's life.
The complex, built between 1451 and 1458, is arranged like a small monastery: a Gothic cloister connects the chapel, the kitchen and the rooms. The chapel has a star vault supported on a single central pillar and a large altarpiece. The heart of Nicolau de Cusa is kept there; he died in Italy and was buried in Rome.
Above the sacristy is the library, with books from the cardinal's personal collection, medieval manuscripts and astronomical instruments. The library is visitable only with a guide. The institution has never ceased operating and continues to be a home for the elderly, now also for women.
The hospital maintains a winery with a tradition of more than 500 years, connected to the slopes of the region. It is a place of work and residence: visit discreetly.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 minutes to the chapel and cloister; 1 hour with the guided tour of the library.
Best time
In the morning or early afternoon on days with guided tours. The chapel has reduced hours on Saturdays; check before you go.
How to get there
It is in Kues, on Cusanusstraße, next to the end of the bridge over the Mosela and a few minutes from the bus stop. From the Marktplatz in Bernkastel, just cross the bridge — about a 10-minute walk.
Tip
The chapel and cloister can be seen without a guide, and entrance to the chapel is free. To see the library, check the days when guided tours are open to the public.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about St. Nikolaus-Hospital (Cusanusstift)
Who was Nicolau de Cusa?
A 15th-century cardinal, philosopher, theologian and scholar of astronomy and mathematics, born in Kues. He founded the hospital in 1458.
Can the library be visited?
Yes, but only with a guided tour. The library houses books from the cardinal's collection and medieval manuscripts.
Is the hospital still in operation?
Yes. The St.-Nikolaus-Hospital continues to be a home for the elderly, so visits should be discreet.
Is there an entrance fee?
Entrance to the chapel is free. The guided tour, which includes the library, is paid.