Pasquart church (Biel/Bienne)

Perched gracefully above the city of Bienne (Biel) in Switzerland, the Pasquart church, known locally as Pasquart-Kirche, stands as a testament to architectural brilliance and historical significance. This evangelical-reformed church, constructed in the early 20th century, is a beacon of faith and community spirit, nestled in the picturesque Pasquart-Quartier, now a part of the Neustadt-Nord district.

The Historical Journey of Pasquart Church

The journey of the Pasquart church begins in the late 19th century. Prior to its construction, the local parish held both German and French-language services in the city’s Stadtkirche (St. Benedict) located in the old town. However, the growing French-speaking community necessitated a new place of worship. In 1893, the evangelical-reformed parish of Biel decided to build a new church specifically for French-language services. They purchased a plot of land that was once part of the Rockhall estate, setting the stage for the creation of this magnificent structure.

In 1897/98, an architectural competition was held, and architect Armin Stöcklin was entrusted with the task of designing the new church. Construction commenced in 1902 and was completed by 1904. The church was officially inaugurated on June 12, 1904. The iconic clock tower, a defining feature of the church, was added in 1923, followed by the installation of a four-bell chime in 1924. While the exterior of the church has remained largely unchanged since its construction, the interior has undergone several renovations and modernizations over the years, notably in 1951/52 and 2000/01. In 2019, the tower was renovated, and the exterior facades were meticulously cleaned, ensuring the church’s continued grandeur.

Architectural Marvels

The Pasquart church is a stunning example of late Romanesque Revival architecture. Its cruciform layout and imposing bell tower create a striking silhouette against the backdrop of the Jura Mountains. The church’s exterior is constructed from rustic ashlar masonry, with bold, predominantly neo-Romanesque forms providing structural articulation. The white Jura stone used for the facades enhances the church’s monumental appearance, particularly when illuminated at night.

One of the most captivating features of the church is its elaborate architectural sculpture, crafted by Karl Joseph Leuch. Above the main portal, a gilded inscription reads “DIEU SOIT AVEC VOUS” (“God be with you”), interrupted at the apex by a depiction of Christ’s head adorned with a crown of thorns. A plaque on the east facade commemorates Thomas Wyttenbach, a reformer from Biel and a teacher of Ulrich Zwingli.

The church’s original large rose windows, created by Zurich glass artist Friedrich Berbig, are another highlight. The east window symbolizes baptism, the south window represents the gospel, and the west window depicts the Last Supper. Additional stained glass windows by Charles Clément, installed in 1951, complement these masterpieces.

The Bells and the Organ

The Pasquart church’s bell tower houses four bells, all cast by the H. Rüetschi foundry in Aarau in 1924. These bells add a melodious charm to the church, ringing out across the city and marking significant moments in the life of the community.

The church’s musical heritage is further enriched by its organ. The first organ, installed in 1907 by Orgelbau Kuhn, featured pneumatic action and 21 stops on two manuals and a pedal. In 1952, a new organ with electric action and 30 stops on three manuals and a pedal was installed on the south gallery, also by Orgelbau Kuhn. The current organ, built by Füglister in 2001, is located on the re-erected north gallery. This purely mechanical instrument boasts 40 speaking stops on four manuals and a pedal, offering a rich and versatile range of sounds for worship and concerts alike.

A Beacon of Faith and Community

The Pasquart church is not just a place of worship; it is a cornerstone of the community. Over the years, it has hosted numerous services broadcast on television across Switzerland and Europe, including Eurovision broadcasts, bringing its message of faith and hope to a wider audience.

Located above the city center on a terrace at the foot of the Jura Mountains, the church enjoys a commanding position that enhances its monumental presence. The nearby early Baroque mansion Rockhall and the two neo-Baroque villas that flank it create a significant historical architectural ensemble, adding to the area’s charm and historical value.

Visiting Pasquart Church

A visit to the Pasquart church offers a unique opportunity to explore its rich history and stunning architecture. The church is easily accessible, with the “Französische Kirche” bus stop, named after the church, located nearby on Alpenstrasse and served by Biel’s public transport line 5.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, the Pasquart church in Bienne is a must-visit destination. Its walls echo with stories of faith, resilience, and community, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience the enduring spirit of this remarkable place.