Reformierte Kirche Dübendorf

Discover the architectural gem of Dübendorf, Switzerland – the Reformierte Kirche Dübendorf, also known locally as Reformierte Kirche Wil. This modernist masterpiece stands proudly in the Zürich canton, serving as a place of worship and a cultural venue for the local community. Its unique design and historical significance make it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The Historical Roots of Reformierte Kirche Dübendorf

The origins of the Reformierte Kirche Dübendorf can be traced back to the early medieval period. The church was first documented indirectly in 946 and directly in 1272. Its beginnings are believed to be closely tied to the Reichenau Monastery, founded in 724. The church likely started as a private chapel in the first half of the 8th century. Over the centuries, the church's patronage changed hands multiple times, from the Freiherren von Tengen in the 14th century to the Johanniterkomturei Küsnacht in 1407, and then to the Martinikloster on the Zürichberg in 1478. By the late 15th century, it had come under the control of the city of Zürich, which played a crucial role in introducing the Reformation to Dübendorf in the 1520s.

The church's journey through the Reformation era was marked by resistance and eventual acceptance. The Augustinian canon Johannes Schlegel initially faced opposition in implementing the Reformation. It was only with the appointment of Hans Schröter in 1524 that the liturgical reforms of the Zürich Reformation were fully realized. The church's patronage rights were transferred to the local community in 1833 during the liberal reforms of the Zürich canton. Since 2016, the Reformed congregations of Dübendorf and Schwerzenbach have formed a unified parish.

Architectural Evolution Through the Ages

The site of the Reformierte Kirche Dübendorf has been inhabited since Roman times, with evidence of a villa that gave the area its name, Wil (from the Latin villa). The first stone church was built on the foundations of this villa in the 8th century. This early church was replaced around the year 1000 by a slightly larger early Romanesque structure, which was then succeeded by a late Romanesque church around 1200. Following its destruction during the Old Zürich War in 1444, the church was rebuilt, retaining much of its late Romanesque character until its demolition in 1968.

In the 17th century, the church underwent significant expansions to accommodate a growing congregation. In 1682, under the direction of master carpenter Jacob Gut and master mason Heinrich Bleuler, the church was extended westward, and a new baroque pulpit was added. Further modifications were made in 1743 to increase seating capacity. A lightning strike in 1832 damaged parts of the tower, prompting a major renovation and expansion in 1833-1834, led by master builder Heinrich Bräm. This renovation transformed the church into a T-shaped structure with a classicist style.

The Modern Masterpiece of 1971

The current Reformierte Kirche Dübendorf is a testament to modernist architecture, designed by Zürich architect Hans von Meyenburg. The decision to replace the old church was made in 1965, following an architectural competition. Meyenburg's design, known as Gallus, was selected for its innovative approach and respect for the site's historical significance. The construction, which began in 1969, involved the expertise of Dübendorf engineers Ernst and Walter Bosshard, who tackled the complex roof and facade structures using early computer-aided calculations. The new church was inaugurated on March 21, 1971.

Exterior and Structural Highlights

The Reformierte Kirche Dübendorf defies traditional symmetry with its sculptural form, reminiscent of Le Corbusier's church designs. The dominant tower, intentionally kept short to harmonize with the nearby Catholic church's slender spire, features a striking copper roof over the polygonal sanctuary. The east side boasts a large triangular window, while the flat-roofed foyers and auxiliary rooms are more subdued. The church's elevated position on a hill allows for a two-story structure with ground-level access to the main public areas.

A notable feature is the copper rooster by artist Eugen Häfelfinger, perched on the hollow structure above the entrance. This rooster, a common symbol atop Reformed churches, also references the project's name, Gallus. The building's form can be interpreted as a stylized rooster, with the roof representing the body and the tower the neck and head. Architect von Meyenburg described the church as a fortress, while engineer Hugo Bachmann likened the tower to a light tent.

The Clock and Bells

The church's clock, crafted by Mäder in Andelfingen, features distinctive square dials that protrude from the tower, adding a dynamic element to its robust appearance. The bell tower, with its slatted design, houses a set of five bells cast by Emil Eschmann in Rickenbach. Each bell carries an inscription from the Bible, resonating with the church's spiritual mission.

Interior Design and Atmosphere

Inside, the church offers a complex spatial experience. The only right-angle corner is in the south, while the other walls form a fan-shaped polygonal layout. The seating arrangement, with 537 simple wooden benches, ensures an unobstructed view of the liturgical area at the base of the tower. The radial design is echoed in the spectacular tent-like roof, made of exposed concrete. This roof, a collaboration between von Meyenburg and the Bosshard brothers, is a folded plate structure that combines reinforced and prestressed concrete, creating a monolithic, seamless form.

The Reformierte Kirche Dübendorf is not just a place of worship; it is a symbol of architectural innovation and historical continuity. Its walls and spaces tell the story of a community's evolving faith and resilience, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the rich cultural landscape of Dübendorf.