Hospice

Hospice The name by which are known the pious establishments kept up by monks on some of the Alpine passes, to afford assistance and shelter to travelers. The first of these established was that situated on the Great St. Bernard, of which the priests of the canton of Valais obtained possession in 1825. Another hospice existed on St. Gothard as early as the 13th century. This establishment the monks have left, and it is now occupied by a "hospitaller," who entertains travelers gratis. Hospices are also found on Mount Cenis, the Simplon, and the Little St. Bernard. — Chambers, Cyclop. 5, 432. SEE HOSPITALS.