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About this place
Katholische Kirche Dübendorf is the Maria Frieden church (Maria-Friedenskirche), the main Catholic church of Dübendorf in the canton of Zurich, Switzerland. It is dedicated to Mary, Queen of Peace, and its tall tower is one of the town centre's best-known landmarks.
When and why was the church built?
Catholic services began again in Dübendorf in 1897. For decades the congregation made do with modest, makeshift premises. After the Second World War it commissioned a proper church, designed by architects Ferdinand Pfammatter and Walter Rieger and built from 1950 to 1952. Bishop Christian Caminada of Chur consecrated it on 27 April 1952. The Historical Lexicon of Switzerland dates it to 1951-1952.
What is there to see?
The tower. Added in 1963, it stands about 45 metres tall, matching the length of the nave. You can spot it from many streets around the centre.
The bells. Six bronze bells were cast in 1963 by H. Rüetschi of Aarau and weigh roughly 14.8 tonnes in total. They are dedicated to the Trinity, Mary, Joseph, Elijah, Barbara and Bernard. Elijah and Barbara reflect Dübendorf's aviation history: the town is known for its military airfield, and Elijah is regarded as a patron of pilots.
The organ. Finished in spring 2014 by Bernhardt H. Edskes of Wohlen (AG), it has 37 stops and ranks among the largest two-manual organs in Switzerland. With little room available, the pipes sit in two mirrored cases that follow the polygonal wall.
The crypt. The parish has planned step-free access to the crypt. Heritage authorities required that new elements at the entrance match the building's architectural style.
How do you get there?
The church is in central Dübendorf, with the parish office on Neuhausstrasse. The town borders Zurich and is served by S-Bahn trains, trams and buses. From the centre it is an easy walk. The parish also runs the Leepünt centre nearby. Visit outside service times for a quiet look inside, or arrive shortly before a service to hear the bells. Check the parish website for current hours.
Frequently asked questions
Is the church called St. Maria? The name in use is Maria Frieden (Maria-Friedenskirche), meaning Mary, Queen of Peace.
When was it built? Between 1950 and 1952, with consecration on 27 April 1952.
How large is the parish? A church job notice cites more than 10,500 Catholics. The parish forms a pastoral area with Fällanden and Schwerzenbach.
Is it worth going inside? Yes, if you are interested in the Edskes organ, post-war church architecture and the town's aviation history.
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