Jesuit Church, Lucerne, Switzerland

The Lucerne Jesuit Church is the first large baroque church built in Switzerland north of the Alps. The Jesuit order, founded by Ignatius of Loyola in 1534, were active participants in the Counter-Reformation, the Catholic fight against the birth of Protestantism. Protestant reformers such as Zwingli in Zurich and Calvin in Genevadivided the predominately Catholic Switzerland. In response, the Jesuits were called in to Lucerne by the city council in 1573 to establish a college. Ludwig Pfyffer, mayor of Lucerne, offered annual financial support to the Jesuits out of his private funds. The Jesuit College of Lucerne was established in 1577 in Ritter Palace, a building originally erected in 1557 as a residence for mayor Lux Ritter.

Construction on the associated church began in 1667. By 1673 the shell of the church and the main façade were completed. The church was consecrated in 1677, though the interior was not yet really finished. Several side altars were still missing and even the high altar was only erected four years later, due to financial problems. The onion topped towers were not completed until 1893. The vault was redecorated in the mid-18th century. The original vestments of Brother Klaus, a famous Swiss patron, are stored in the inner chapel.

References:

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Religious sites in Switzerland

User Reviews

Fakhrur Rozi (NaikDelman) (4 months ago)
Simply breathtaking art on the ceiling.. such would be typical for a Baroque church, but this is another level of workmanship! Comparable to some famous baroque churches in Europe!

Anthony Divinagracia (5 months ago)
A breathtaking Catholic Church located along the River Reuss. The interior is astonishing with ornate ceilings, detailed art work on the walls and a massive pipe organ in the back. A definite recommendation when visiting Lucerne.

Khalid Khan (7 months ago)
The Church is offering peaceful and spiritual atmosphere located along the river Reuss River, The church is known for its beautiful interior and wood work. It is best for those who are interested in history and art.

Mat Bienczyk (9 months ago)
One of the larger churchs in Lucerne - the first Baroque church north of the Alps in Switzerland. The architecture is astonishing, especially on the inside with the vast cielings and detailed work.

Jayden Kusuma (10 months ago)
One majestic piece of art of a church. This house of prayer looks like it was built with every single passionate artist and architect in the world then. Loved the statues and all the paintings. A must visit when in Lucerne

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