Imagine stepping back in time to the early 18th century in Onex. That is when the story of Ancienne église Saint-Martin truly begins.
This old church stood as a beacon of faith. However, as the community grew, a transformation became necessary. Let’s delve into the history of this special place.
By the 1960s, Onex was experiencing rapid growth. The original Ancienne église Saint-Martin was simply too small to accommodate the expanding congregation. Architects Virginio Malnati stepped in to address this challenge. Malnati had already restored the chapel in 1955.
Between 1964 and 1967, a new Saint-Martin church was built. It replaced the old one. The new church featured a circular design. The Ancienne église Saint-Martin was no longer used for worship after 1967.
The new building boasted distinctive features. Jacques Wasem created a stunning glass tile strip that ran around the interior. Dolores Blasco contributed liturgical metalwork. A separate bell tower was added in 1998. It housed three bells.
Interestingly, the Ancienne église Saint-Martin found a new purpose. In 1975, it was converted into the Council Chamber for the municipality. This marked a significant change in its role within the community.
The architectural details of the new church are noteworthy. Its circular plan and concrete construction reflect modern design principles. Vitraux by Jacques Wasem added color and light. They created the longest stained glass window in Switzerland stretching 87 meters.
Inside, the circular liturgical space impresses with its ribbed vault ceiling. This wooden structure spans 27.20 meters. Light filters through the stained glass windows creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Today, the Ancienne église Saint-Martin stands as a reminder of the past. It is a testament to the evolving needs of a growing community. Its story is one of adaptation, reuse, and architectural innovation. The Ancienne église Saint-Martin is a landmark in Onex. It reflects both its religious heritage and civic progress.