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About this place
Klosterkirche Königsfelden in Windisch is the former church of a double convent of Poor Clares and Franciscans in the canton of Aargau, Switzerland, famed for its medieval stained glass. It is now run by Museum Aargau and ranks among the region's most significant religious monuments.
What is the story behind Königsfelden?
The Habsburgs founded the convent in 1309. The trigger was the murder of King Albrecht I on 1 May 1308, close to the Reuss crossing near Windisch. His widow Elisabeth established the community in his memory. The site lies on the grounds of the Roman legionary camp Vindonissa, so ancient military remains are nearby.
From 1317 Albrecht's daughter Agnes of Hungary, widow of King Andrew III, lived here. She never took vows, yet she steered Habsburg politics from Königsfelden and built up the convent's estates. The Reformation ended monastic life in 1528, and the nave was later put to use as a grain store.
What can you see inside?
The highlight is the stained glass made around 1325–1330. The choir was consecrated in 1330, probably when most of the glazing was finished. The windows turned the church into a Habsburg memorial. Glass once filled the nave too, but it survives only in the choir and the west window. Specialists count the cycle among Switzerland's finest, alongside the choir glazing of Bern Minster.
The interior is plain, in the manner of mendicant-order churches, so the colored light stands out all the more.
How do you get to Königsfelden?
The church is in Windisch next to Brugg, at roughly 47.48° N, 8.22° E. From Zurich it is an easy trip by regional rail or road. Check Museum Aargau's website for current opening hours and entry rules before you go.
When is the best time to visit?
Come on a bright day, when sunlight strikes the choir windows. A visit takes about an hour; combined with the nearby Roman sites of Vindonissa, including the amphitheater, it fills half a day.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns the church? Museum Aargau, since 2009, which also looks after the former convent grounds.
Who founded the convent? The Habsburgs, after Albrecht I was murdered in 1308. The foundation dates to 1309.
Why is the glass famous? It dates from about 1325–1330 and is one of Switzerland's most important medieval glass ensembles.
Is this the same as the Catholic church in Windisch? No. Königsfelden is the former convent church; Windisch has other churches, such as the Catholic St. Mary's.
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