Imagine farmhouses giving way to modern buildings. This is the story of Kirche St. Gallus. It stands proudly on Dübendorfstrasse in Schwamendingen.
Kirche St. Gallus is more than just a church. It mirrors the changing face of Zurich. Schwamendingen transformed from a farming village. It became a bustling city district. The church reflects this transition perfectly.
Let’s step back in time to the 1950s. Schwamendingen’s population exploded. It grew from 3000 to over 34000. The neighboring parish of Herz Jesu Oerlikon wanted to build a chapel. It aimed to serve the growing community.
The initial plan was a wooden chapel. But city officials rejected it. They found the design aesthetically unappealing. Architect Fritz Metzger was then commissioned. He built a simple stone chapel. It had a flat roof and a small bell tower. In 1950 Bishop Christian Caminada consecrated it. It was dedicated to St. Gallus.
Franz Höfliger played a crucial role. He was a well known beggar prelate. The bishop sent him to Schwamendingen. Höfliger had experience building parishes. He raised funds for the new Kirche St. Gallus. He traveled across Switzerland.
In 1950, the area became its own parish. The first church was soon too small. Höfliger’s fundraising efforts paid off. Architects Ferdinand Pfammatter and Walter Rieger built the Kirche St. Gallus. It was built between 1955 and 1957. Bishop Christian Caminada consecrated it in 1957.
The original chapel served as a weekday chapel. Later, it was replaced by a parish center. Architect Hanspeter Steiner built it. It was built in 1968 and 1969. Bishop Johannes Vonderach consecrated the Kirche St. Gallus in 1969.
The Kirche St. Gallus design is striking. It resembles the nearby Dübendorf airfield hangars. This design choice symbolizes openness and modernity. The church’s cross section forms a parabolic arch. It reaches 16.5 meters high. It could accommodate 700 to 800 worshippers. The church is 34.5 meters long and nearly 22 meters wide.
The bell tower is another interesting feature. It stands 37.5 meters tall. Initially, planners wanted it closer to Dübendorfstrasse. But the cantonal government denied permission. The tower stands southwest of the church.
The bronze bells were consecrated in 1960. Bishop Joseph Hasler of St. Gallen did the honors. The bells’ tones harmonize with the nearby Reformed church.
The altar space has changed over time. In 1969 and 1970, it was updated. This followed the Second Vatican Council’s guidelines. Albert Wider redesigned the space. The altar was moved to the center. A seat was placed behind the altar. The tabernacle was placed near the congregation. The ambo and baptismal font were placed to the right.
The Kirche St. Gallus also has beautiful stained glass. Paul Monnier designed the Stations of the Cross. It was installed in 1958. A large stained glass window was added in 1987. Fra Roberto Pasotti designed it. Georg and Stefan Mathies created it.
The Kreuznische is a special part of the church. It was expanded into a chapel during a renovation. Alois Spichtig designed the redesign. Franz Bucher painted the chapel. It features a Madonna and Child statue. A crucifix stands at the center.
The Kirche St. Gallus has had several organs. The current organ was built in 1970. Späth Orgelbau created it. It has 36 registers and 2697 pipes.
The Krypta serves as a weekday chapel. It replaced the original church. Felix Marquard designed it. The space features wood and dark glass. It creates an intimate atmosphere.
Kirche St. Gallus represents architectural innovation. It also is a space for community and reflection. It welcomes people from all walks of life. It stands as a testament to Schwamendingen’s growth and change.