Stadtkirche Winterthur

Stadtkirche Winterthur is the Reformed town church in the old town of Winterthur, in the canton of Zurich. Its tall tower rises above the rooftops of the centre, and the building ranks as a cultural property of national significance in Switzerland. It pairs a historic interior with one of the best viewpoints over the city.

What is the history of the Stadtkirche?

The church is first recorded in 1244 as a modest parish church dedicated to St. Laurence. It became a collegiate church in 1264 and passed to Protestant use around 1520 during the Reformation. Excavations carried out between 1980 and 1983 revealed even earlier religious buildings on the site and clarified how the church was built over time; a study of the findings appeared in 1993.

What can you see inside and on the tower?

The interior is known for paintings and stained glass by Giacometti. Burial vaults lie beneath the church and can be seen on guided visits. The bells were cast in 1869 by Jakob II Keller of Zurich-Unterstrass and are split between the two towers. It was among the first sets in Switzerland mounted on cast-iron yokes, and the largest bell weighs roughly 4 tonnes.

Most visitors come for the north tower, about 50 metres up. A climb of 208 steep steps ends in a view across the old town.

How do you visit?

The tower climb calls for good fitness and a head for heights, and it is not suitable for children under 6. You can reach it on a roughly two-hour old-town tour that starts at the tourist information desk in the main station. A separate guided visit covers the church interior, the crypts, the paintings and the windows, though dates are limited. Check opening hours with the Reformed parish of Winterthur or the tourist office.

How do you get there?

The church stands in the pedestrian old town of Winterthur, a few minutes on foot from the main station. Trains from Zurich run to Winterthur, and you finish the trip on foot. Coordinates: 47.499 N, 8.729 E.

Frequently asked questions

Can you climb the Stadtkirche tower?

Yes, the north tower is open to visitors, usually as part of an organised tour. Expect 208 steps.

When was the church built?

It is first mentioned in 1244, and the Reformation made it Protestant around 1520.

Is the church a protected monument?

Yes, it is a cultural property of national significance.

Is it suitable for children?

Keep children under 6 off the tower. The church interior has no such limit.