Fides von Klingen
Swiss abbess (died 1358)
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Fides von Klingen (died 28 February 1358, Zurich) was a Swiss abbess. She led the Fraumünster Abbey and, effectively, Zurich itself for 18 years, from 1340 until her death.
Biography
Her father was a baron named Walter.[1] Initially a nun at the Fraumünster Abbey, Fides von Klingen was elected abbess at the end of 1340[1][2] in a contested election against Beatrix von Wolhusen.[1] She thus succeeded Elisabeth von Matzingen.[2] An arbitrator appointed by Emperor Louis IV had to intervene to decide in her favor.[1]
Her reign was marked by difficulties, notably the Black Death, which struck Zurich in 1348, and the Bloody Night of Zurich in 1350.[1] Furthermore, the city experienced an urban rebellion and abolished some of the abbey's privileges.[3] She also altered the style used on the abbey's seals.[4]
She died on 28 February 1358 in Zurich[1] and was succeeded by Beatrix von Wolhusen.[2]
