Aarau city church

Aarau Stadtkirche (the Town Church, listed as "Aarau city church") is a Reformed church in Aarau, the capital of the canton of Aargau in Switzerland. This late Gothic basilica stands on Kirchplatz at the edge of the old town and is one of the city's key landmarks. It is classed as a heritage site of national significance.

When was it built, and by whom?

The present church went up between 1471 and 1478, replacing an earlier building. Master builder Sebastian Gisel followed the layout of the Königsfelden monastery church, and much of the stone came from the demolished Obergösgen castle. The tower is older than the nave: its lower part dates to the first half of the 15th century, and in 1663 it was raised and given curved Baroque gables.

What can you see inside?

• A Gothic rood screen (Lettner). Swiss heritage literature counts it among the finest late Gothic screens in the country.
• A plain interior. After the Reformation of 1528 the twelve altars were removed. The 1965-66 restoration brought back the original austerity and rebuilt the facades and the roof turret.
• Stained glass. The side aisles hold windows by Roland Guignard from 1970.
• The organ. It moved to the west gallery during the 1889-90 renovation. A new instrument was installed in 1961-62, keeping the old case front and adding a new Rückpositiv.

What about the bells?

Part of the peal was cast by the Rüetschi foundry of Aarau, and the main bells date from 1899. The church bell-ringer also plays the carillon, and the tower's sound has featured on Swiss radio.

How to visit

The church sits in the old town, a short walk from the centre and the station. The lanes around it were laid out by the Counts of Kyburg in the 13th century, so you can combine the visit with a stroll through the medieval street plan. Check opening hours and tower access with the Reformed parish of Aarau before you go.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Stadtkirche Aarau Catholic?

No. It is an Evangelical Reformed church used by the local Reformed congregation.

What period is it from?

The late Gothic. The nave was built in 1471-1478 and the tower was raised in 1663.

What is the highlight inside?

The late Gothic rood screen, together with the restored plain nave and Guignard's stained glass.

Is it the same as the churches in Basel or Wädenswil?

No. This is the Stadtkirche in Aarau, canton of Aargau, not a similarly named church in another town.