Reformed city church

In the heart of the picturesque old town of Bienne (Biel), Switzerland, stands the Reformed City Church, known locally as Reformierte Stadtkirche. This magnificent church, with its roots tracing back to the early 13th century, is a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the region. As one of the most significant late Gothic churches in Switzerland, it promises a journey through time for every visitor.

The Historical Significance of the Reformed City Church

The Reformed City Church was first mentioned in historical records in 1228, within the Lausanne Cartulary. Originally dedicated to Saint Benedict of Nursia, the patron saint of the city, the church's early history is intertwined with the ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Diocese of Lausanne and the political domain of the Prince-Bishopric of Basel. The current structure, however, began to take shape in 1451 under the guidance of master builder Wenzlin. Unfortunately, Wenzlin passed away in 1465, and an unnamed successor completed the construction by 1470.

The church's tower, a prominent feature, has its base from the preceding Romanesque church and was heightened in 1480 to ensure the bells could be heard throughout the city's southern parts. A dramatic event in 1481 saw the tower split and collapse, but miraculously, the bells remained intact, and the worker involved survived with minor injuries. The tower was reconstructed by 1490, and the current spire with its four corner turrets was added between 1549 and 1551.

Architectural Marvels and Artistic Treasures

The Reformed City Church is a splendid example of late Gothic architecture, comprising a main nave, two side aisles, a polygonal choir, and five side chapels. The church's design reflects the architectural traditions of the southern German mendicant orders. The main nave and choir stretch to a combined length of 36 meters, with the nave measuring 7.5 meters in width and 14 meters in height.

One of the most captivating aspects of the church is its collection of wall paintings. Notable among these is the depiction of Saint Benedict at the entrance of the north portal, the fresco of Saint Veronica's Veil in a niche in the northern aisle, a representation of the Last Judgment (Christ on the Rainbow) in the high nave, and the martyrdom of Saint Sebastian in the southern aisle. These artworks offer a glimpse into the religious and cultural narratives of the time.

The Baptismal Font and Stained Glass Windows

The richly adorned baptismal font, crafted in 1492, is a masterpiece of late Gothic stone masonry. Initially located in the original baptismal chapel, it now stands proudly in the choir. Its counterpart, created in 1498 by the same master, resides in the Freiburg Cathedral and differs only in its figurative decoration.

The stained glass windows in the central window of the choir, dating back to 1457, were a gift from the city of Biel. These windows depict the Passion of Christ and scenes from the life of Saint Benedict, adding a vibrant touch to the church's interior.

The Majestic Organs

The Reformed City Church houses three notable organs. The main organ, located on the stone west gallery, was built by the organ-building firm Metzler in 2011. This organ is unique for its wind-dynamic fourth manual work, making it the first large organ in the world to feature such a mechanism. It boasts 51 registers distributed across four manuals and a pedal.

The swallow's nest organ, perched on the north wall of the high nave, was built in 1994 by Metzler Orgelbau. This instrument, with its nine registers, is designed for the performance of late Gothic, Renaissance, and early Baroque organ music. Its painted wing doors, completed in 1995, add to its visual appeal.

Additionally, the choir organ, created in 2003 by Peter Kraul in collaboration with the Bern University of the Arts, features five registers and is an experimental piece that adds a modern touch to the church's musical repertoire.

The Resonant Bells

The church's bell tower houses five bells, all cast by the H. Rüetschi foundry in Aarau. Most of the bells date back to 1882, though two were added after World War II in 1947 and 1955, replacing those gifted to war-damaged communities in Alsace.

In conclusion, the Reformed City Church in Bienne is not just a place of worship but a beacon of historical and cultural significance. Its architectural splendor, artistic treasures, and rich history make it an essential visit for anyone exploring the beautiful city of Bienne. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, the Reformed City Church promises an enriching and unforgettable experience.