St. Paul's Church

St. Paul's Church (Pauluskirche) in Basel is a Neo-Romanesque landmark from the turn of the 20th century and one of Switzerland's best-known Art Nouveau churches. It now works as a cultural venue called Kulturkirche Paulus, and it is listed as a Swiss cultural property of national importance.

Who built it, and when?

Construction ran from May 1898 to November 1901. The architects were Karl Moser and Robert Curjel, and the building was consecrated on Sunday, 17 November 1901. The same partnership later designed the Pauluskirche in Bern.

What is there to see outside?

The church has a cross-shaped central plan and stands free on its plot, so you can walk all the way round it. A square tower and a large rose window dominate the silhouette. The basic forms echo late Romanesque architecture, while the facade carries interlaced Jugendstil ornament. Above the main portal is a 1904 relief by Carl Burckhardt showing Christ lifting up a fallen sinner.

What does the interior hold?

Stained glass by Max Läuger, made between 1901 and 1904, sets the mood. On either side of the niche pulpit runs a mosaic cycle by Heinrich Altherr from 1908. The organ dates from 1987, built by Orgelbau Th. Kuhn with three manuals and 53 stops in a case designed by Georg Weismann. It replaced an 1901 instrument by Jakob Zimmermann.

What is a visit like today?

The last regular service took place in June 2019. An association, Kulturkirche Paulus, was founded in September 2020 and has run the building since 1 July 2021. Expect concerts, neighbourhood events and choir work. Guided tower tours explain the construction history, and the outside galleries look out in all four directions. Check the current programme and tour dates before you go.

How do you get there?

The church sits in the western part of central Basel, a few tram stops from SBB station. Walking or public transport is the easiest way; street parking nearby is limited. It combines well with a walk through the Old Town and along the Rhine.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Pauluskirche still a working church?

Not in the traditional sense. Regular services ended in 2019, and since 2021 an association has used the building for cultural events.

Who designed it?

Karl Moser and Robert Curjel, between 1898 and 1901.

What style is it?

The structure is Neo-Romanesque, while the decoration and stained glass are Art Nouveau (Jugendstil).

Can you climb the tower?

Guided tower tours are offered, but the tower is not open at all times, so confirm dates with the organisers.