Capuchin convent of Lugano

Capuchin convent built at a vantage point above the city. Established in 1535, it was the first Franciscan foundation on Swiss soil. The monastery was gradually extended and reconstructed in the 17th and 18th century. The monastic church of Santa Maria Assunta was consecrated in 1577. The core of the rectangular structure with choir dates most likely from the 16th century. Its barrel vault with arched windows on three sides and the cross vault above the choir were built in the 18th or 19th century. The timber altar is in the Rococo style. The Renaissance altarpiece depicts the Virgin Mary and a magnificent landscape and is of great artistic value. It is a gift of the Royal House of Savoy made to the friars in the second quarter of the 16th century. The painting is thought to be the work of a Flemish artist.