Reformierte Kreuzkirche

The Reformed Church of the Holy Cross (Kreuzkirche) in Zürich stands in the Hottingen quarter, part of the city's District 7. Built in the early 1900s, it is a Protestant parish church crowned with a dome and one of the best-known landmarks of this residential area.

What makes the Kreuzkirche stand out?

Construction ran from 1902 to 1905. The Historical Dictionary of Switzerland calls it a grand domed building, planned as a counterpart to the Enge church on the other side of town. The design follows a central plan, and a columned portico marks the entrance. The name, meaning "Church of the Cross", refers to the cross-shaped layout.

The main hall is large, with a reported capacity of around 1,400 people. Reliefs by the sculptor August Bösch decorate the walls. The Reformed parish of Hottingen uses the building, so it works as a living church with regular services rather than a museum.

What is the history of the site?

The present church replaced a chapel dating from 1612, which had served as a burial place and for occasional services. The new building came with the growth of Hottingen, which Zürich absorbed in 1893. New housing was spreading across the slopes, and the congregation needed a far larger church.

Where is it and how do you get there?

The church lies in Hottingen on the lower slopes of the Adlisberg, at roughly 47.370 N, 8.562 E. It is close to the Villa Tobler park and the Theater an der Winkelwiese. From the main station, public transport covers the distance in around a quarter of an hour, and walking from the city centre takes about half an hour.

What else is nearby?

Hottingen is a calm, green district of villas. A visit to the Kreuzkirche combines well with a stroll through the Villa Tobler park or a walk up the Adlisberg, which gives views over the city and the lake. The dome is best seen from outside, and daylight shows off the facade.

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as the Heilig Kreuz church on Saumackerstrasse?

No. That church is Catholic, built in 1978-1979 in another part of the city. The Kreuzkirche in Hottingen is Reformed and dates from 1902-1905.

When was the church built?

Between 1902 and 1905, on the site of a 1612 chapel.

Can visitors go inside?

It is an active parish church. Opening hours and service times are listed on the website of the Reformed church in Zürich, so check before you go.

What else is there to see nearby?

Villa Tobler and its park, the Theater an der Winkelwiese, and trails up the Adlisberg.