Verbier-Station Church

Verbier-Station Church (Église de Verbier-Station, also known locally as Notre-Dame) is a modern Catholic church in the heart of the Verbier resort, in the Swiss canton of Valais and the municipality of Val de Bagnes. It stands on Route des Creux, a short walk from the main pedestrian streets and the lower lift stations.

What makes this church special?

Geneva architect Jean Ellenberger designed it, and it was built between 1959 and 1961, just as Verbier was turning from a summer mountain village into a ski resort. Its rounded form is often compared to a chalice, a long way from the stone chapels typical of the Alps. The church is dedicated to the Immaculate and Sorrowful Heart of Mary. Bishop Nestor Adam consecrated it in 1969 and blessed its bells.

What can you see inside?

Look for the large old cross near the altar, which echoes regional crosses such as the Croix-de-Cœur and the Croix de la Chaux. Three bells hang in the tower, named Notre-Dame Mère de l'Église, Sainte-Anne and Saint-Augustin.

Where does it fit in Verbier's history?

Verbier once belonged to the parish of Bagnes. According to the Historical Dictionary of Switzerland, tourism growth led to its own parish in 1962. That parish covers seven places of worship, including the Protestant church in the resort (1954), Notre-Dame (1969) and Saint-Barthélemy in the village (1973).

When should you visit?

Masses and ecumenical services take place here, so plan a visit outside service times. Since 1994 the church has also hosted concerts of the Verbier Festival and Festival Academy in summer. Opening hours are not officially listed; you can call the parish on +41 27 776 13 53.

How do you get there?

The church is in the resort centre at Route des Creux, 1936 Verbier (about 46.0995 N, 7.2296 E). Most hotels and chalets are a few minutes away on foot. Verbier is reached by bus or car from Le Châble, where the railway line ends.

Frequently asked questions

Is the church medieval? No. It dates from 1959–1961 and is an example of post-war alpine church architecture.

Who designed it? Jean Ellenberger, an architect from Geneva.

Can you hear a concert there? Yes. Verbier Festival and Festival Academy concerts have been held here since 1994.

How is it different from the church in Verbier-Village? Saint-Barthélemy in the old village is a separate parish church, consecrated in 1973. The resort church is the more modern Notre-Dame, consecrated in 1969.