Austrian Hospice in Jerusalem Names New Permanent Director After 18-Month Gap
The Austrian Hospice in Jerusalem has named a new permanent director after a year and a half without one. Franz Xaver Brandmayr, a 70-year-old cleric from Upper Austria, will take over the role. His appointment follows a period of temporary leadership after the previous director's suspension in late 2024.
The hospice had been run by a provisional commission since October 2024. This followed the suspension of Markus Stefan Bugnyár, who faced allegations of inappropriate conduct. Despite the leadership gap, daily operations—including guest services, research, and the popular Café Triest—continued without major disruption.
Brandmayr brings extensive experience to the position. He currently serves as provost of Wiener Neustadt Cathedral and previously led the Pontifical Institute Santa Maria dell'Anima in Rome. During his time there, he managed large-scale renovations of both the institute and its church, skills that may prove valuable for the hospice's upcoming restoration of its main building. The Austrian Bishops' Conference has now formally approved his appointment. The hospice, with its 48 rooms and 116 beds, remains a key symbol of Austrian presence in the Near East.
Brandmayr's arrival ends an 18-month period of interim leadership. His background in renovation projects and international experience will likely shape the hospice's future direction. The institution continues to serve as a cultural and practical hub for Austrian visitors in Jerusalem.
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