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About this place
The College Church of Spiritus Sanctus in Brig (Brig-Glis, canton of Valais, Switzerland) is the Jesuit-era church of the old college, consecrated in 1687 and known for its lavish rococo interior. Locals and visitors alike count it among the finest churches in the Valais.
Where does the church come from?
The Spiritus Sanctus college was founded in 1662 by Kaspar Stockalper von Thurm with the backing of the Upper Valais districts (Zenden), and the Jesuits ran the school from the outset. The church followed, consecrated in 1687. Its plans were drawn by Mathäus Koller of Augsburg and the Jesuit brother Heinrich Mayer; the Bodmer brothers of Prismell carried out the work and simplified the design somewhat.
What will you see inside?
The decoration is rococo, and the baroque organ has 40 stops. On a guided visit you can also see the sacristy, which holds liturgical objects made in southern German silversmithing centres.
What happened to the college after the Jesuits?
When the Jesuit order was dissolved in 1773, the future of the school stirred heated debate across the Valais. After the Jesuits left for good, priests from the Diocese of Sion took over teaching and pastoral care. The college still operates as a school, and the church remains a place of prayer and a landmark of Brig's skyline.
How do you visit?
The church is open to visitors on a guided tour, offered in German, French or English. Tours do not run during services or events, so check dates with the Brig-Simplon tourist office first. The Stockalper Palace, tied to the same founder, is nearby, which makes a combined old-town walk easy.
Frequently asked questions
When was the church built? The college dates from 1662; the church was consecrated in 1687.
Who designed it? Mathäus Koller of Augsburg and Jesuit brother Heinrich Mayer drew the plans; the Bodmer brothers built it.
What style is the interior? Rococo, with a baroque organ of 40 stops.
Can you join a guided tour? Yes, in German, French or English, including the sacristy. Tours are not held during services or events.
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