Reformierte Kirche.Uster

Reformierte Kirche Uster (the Reformed Church of Uster) is a classicist church in the town of Uster, in the canton of Zurich, Switzerland. It occupies a commanding position above the town centre and has been Uster's best-known religious landmark for nearly two centuries.

When was it built, and by whom?

The present church went up in 1823–24, replacing an older Romanesque-Gothic building. That predecessor, St. Andrew's, stood beside Uster Castle, appears in records from 1099 and was pulled down in 1823. The Swiss art guide credits the new building to Johannes Volkart. The tower came a few years later, in 1827–28, and the church was last renovated in 1984–85.

Sources vary a little on dates: some give 1824 as the year of consecration, others treat the whole project as running from 1823 to 1827. Either way, the church dates from a single building campaign roughly 200 years ago.

What does it look like?

The church is a restrained, sober piece of classicism built as a transverse church, with its main axis running across the nave. The front is marked by a monumental gabled portico on four Tuscan columns. At the back rises a tower with a pointed spire and curved clock gables. The effect is dignified and solid rather than ornate.

Why does it matter historically?

The church was completed shortly before the Ustertag of 1830, the mass gathering of rural people from across the canton that became a milestone in Swiss liberal reform. The imposing new building was meant to reflect the rising confidence of the rural middle class. In 2024 the Reformed church marked its 200th anniversary.

How to visit

• The church stands in central Uster, so it fits easily into a walk through the town and up to the castle area.
• View it first from the main entrance to take in the portico, then walk around to see the tower.
• The interior is open mainly around services and parish events. Check the Reformierte Kirche Uster website for current times.
• Uster is a 20–30 minute S-Bahn ride from Zurich.

Frequently asked questions

Who designed the church in Uster? The 1823–24 building is credited to Johannes Volkart. The tower was added in 1827–28.

How old is the church? The current building is about 200 years old, but a church has stood on the site much longer. Its predecessor, St. Andrew's, is recorded from 1099.

What architectural style is it? Classicism, with a Tuscan-column portico at the front and a spired tower at the back.

Can I go inside? The interior is accessible during services and parish events. Outside those, confirm opening hours with the parish.