Quietly nestled in Zurich’s Wipkingen neighborhood, the Kirche Letten might easily be missed. Built in the Landi style, its modest appearance blends harmoniously with the surrounding residential area. Let’s step closer and uncover the story of this unique church.
The Kirche Letten came about because the reformed population grew quickly in the area. The Wipkingen parish wanted to be more present in this neighborhood full of children. Max Aeschlimann and Armin Baumgartner designed the church. These architects also designed the nearby housing in the Wasserwerk colony. The Kirche Letten was built between 1954 and 1955.
Notice how the Kirche Letten doesn’t dominate its surroundings. It’s set back from Imfeldstrasse and doesn’t tower over the neighboring buildings. The architects deliberately avoided making it too prominent. The Pfarrhaus or parsonage sits downhill from the church. A pergola connects it to the Kirche Letten.
Inside the Kirche Letten, you’ll find a simple design with plenty of wood. The choir wall stands out. It features exposed brickwork and three reliefs. Hans Brandenberger, a local sculptor, created these artworks. They show the Bible, communion bread, and a dove. These elements add artistic touches to the interior.
The Kirche Letten’s design reflects the Landi style, popular in Switzerland since the late 1930s. Art historically, the Kirche Letten belongs to the architectural tradition of the early post-war period. The Markuskirche in Seebach and the Neue Kirche Altstetten complement it in Zurich.
In 2001 and 2002, the Kirche Letten underwent renovations. Architect Richard W. Späh oversaw the project. The renovations included removing the pews and replacing them with flexible seating. A new communion table was added. A lift was installed. These changes made the space more versatile.
The Kirche Letten has a Maag-Oerlikon organ. It was originally built in 1955. The organ was modified and expanded in 1963. Eduard Müller renovated the organ in 2001.
Today, the Kirche Letten is a vibrant community hub. The Kirchenkreis sechs of the Zurich parish uses it for various activities. Services, concerts, family events, and lunches take place here. The Kirche Letten is also rented out. Choir rehearsals, celebrations by other churches, and meetings are held within these walls.
Considered a municipal protected site, the Kirche Letten remains largely in its original 1950s condition. Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity, functionality, and integration with the community. The Kirche Letten offers a welcoming space for worship, reflection, and connection in Zurich’s vibrant Wipkingen neighborhood.