Neue Pfarrkirche

Beneath the towering presence of the Neue Pfarrkirche, a silent story unfolds. The Neue Pfarrkirche in Schaan, Liechtenstein, isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a testament to community spirit and princely generosity. The year was 1888. The old St. Laurentius Church, mentioned as early as 1300, was showing its age. It had survived wars, fires, and renovations, but it was time for something new. The Neue Pfarrkirche, also dedicated to St. Laurentius, began to rise, its neo-Gothic architecture a striking contrast to the older structure. Prince Johann II played a crucial role, not only appointing the architect, Gustav von Neumann, but also generously funding the project. The sale of the Sücka alpine pasture, owned by the prince, provided a significant portion of the funds. The community also rallied, even selling art from the old church to contribute. The Neue Pfarrkirche’s 81-meter tower, the highest in Liechtenstein, dominates the skyline. This tower holds a set of bells, initially four, cast in 1893 with distinct tones. Two more bells joined them in 1968, creating a harmonious chime that echoes across the valley. Inside, remnants of the past coexist with modern art. The 17th-century crucifix, rescued from the old church, hangs solemnly. The vibrant stained-glass windows, designed by local artist Martin Frommelt in the 1960s and 70s, cast colorful patterns across the interior. The Neue Pfarrkirche is more than just stones and glass. It’s a living chronicle of Schaan’s history, a blend of faith, generosity, and architectural prowess.