Marien Wädenswil

Marienkirche (Church of St. Mary) in Wädenswil is the Roman Catholic parish church on Etzelstrasse in this Lake Zurich town in the canton of Zurich. Built in the neo-Romanesque style in the 1890s, it belongs to the Diocese of Chur and the Albis deanery, and stands out in a town long shaped by the Protestant Reformation.

What is this building?

The church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and serves the Catholic parish of Wädenswil. It was constructed between 1894 and 1897 to a design by August Hardegger, a Swiss architect who planned many Catholic churches around the turn of the 20th century and blended early Christian, Gothic Revival and Romanesque Revival forms. The consecration took place on 18 July 1897. Travel listings describe it as a basilica with room for about 800 people.

What does it look like?

The neo-Romanesque character shows in the massing: a semicircular apse, an arcade along the exterior and a tower rising above the whole. The effect comes from proportion and rhythm rather than decoration. Look at the line of arches on the facade and at how the solid body contrasts with the residential streets around Etzelstrasse.

How do you get to Marienkirche in Wädenswil?

Wädenswil sits on the western shore of Lake Zurich and is served by regional trains from Zurich, so the S-Bahn is the easiest way to arrive. The church lies in a residential part of town at roughly 47.2265 N, 8.6723 E, within walking distance of the centre. The rectory and parish office (Etzelstrasse 3) are on the same site.

Can you go inside?

This is a working parish church, so access depends on services and opening arrangements. Check the Wädenswil Catholic parish for Mass and opening times, which change with the liturgical calendar. Keep quiet during services. Since 2020 a foundation, Sankt Marien, has owned and maintained the church and rectory in support of worship and pastoral work in the parish.

What else is nearby?

Wädenswil makes a good base for lakeside walks and for hikes toward the Etzel hill. The town also has a Reformed church, so one outing lets you compare Protestant and Catholic architecture. Combine the visit with a stroll through the centre and a boat trip on the lake.

Frequently asked questions

Who designed the Marienkirche in Wädenswil?

August Hardegger, an architect who specialised in church buildings. Construction ran from 1894 to 1897.

How many people does the church hold?

Tourist sources give about 800 seats.

Which diocese does the parish belong to?

The Diocese of Chur, in the Albis deanery.

Is the church open to visitors?

It is an active parish church. The Catholic parish of Wädenswil publishes opening and service times; stay quiet during Mass.