Reformed Town Church

The Reformed Town Church (Stadtkirche) in Burgdorf is a late Gothic landmark in the canton of Bern. Its 72-metre tower rises above the whole town from the western hill and balances the castle on the opposite side of the old town. If you are exploring the Emmental region or making a day trip from Bern, it is one of the most rewarding church stops.

What is the history of the Stadtkirche?

A Romanesque church from around 1200 was the first building on the site. As Burgdorf grew, it became too small. In 1473 the town hired Niklaus Birenvogt, master builder of Bern Minster, to build a replacement. Work actually began in 1471, and sources give different completion dates, from 1490 to the early 16th century.

The result is a three-aisled basilica with a vaulted, elongated choir, two side chapels and a tall tower at the front. In 1865 a fire destroyed the tower's spire. Rebuilding finished in 1868, although specialists criticised it. The fire also led to the neo-Gothic bells that hang in the tower today.

What will you see inside and around the church?

The highlight is the late Gothic rood screen (Lettner), completed around 1512 by Heinrich Kummer and considered the most valuable of its kind in Switzerland. In 1867 it was moved to the west end of the nave, turned through 180 degrees and converted into an organ gallery. Visitors now look up at it as they enter.

The surroundings are worth a few minutes too. Across from the church stands the baroque rectory of 1727, a large building under a steep hipped roof. Next to it survives half of a 13th-century tower, a remnant of the town's old defences. Together they give a good impression of medieval Burgdorf.

How do you get to the church?

Burgdorf lies on the railway line linking Bern with Lucerne and Zurich, so the train from Bern is the easy option. The church stands on the hill in the western part of the old town. Just walk uphill towards the tower, which is visible from far away. From the station it is a stroll through the town centre.

When should you visit, and how long do you need?

Go during the day, when light enters through the choir windows. This is a working church of the Reformed parish, so check opening times and service dates on the parish website before you go. The exterior, the rectory and the old tower take about fifteen minutes, and with the interior roughly an hour. Combine it with a walk around the old town and a visit to the castle.

Frequently asked questions

Is it a Catholic church? No. It belongs to the Reformed (Protestant) parish of Burgdorf.

How tall is the tower? 72 metres, one of the most recognisable features of the town skyline.

What is the most valuable feature inside? The late Gothic rood screen from around 1512, which has served as the organ gallery since 1867.

Who built the current church? Niklaus Birenvogt, master builder of Bern Minster, led the project, which started in 1471.