Nestled in the charming district of Mattenbach in Winterthur, Switzerland, the Herz Jesu Mattenbach church stands as a beacon of faith and architectural elegance. Known locally as Herz Jesu, this Roman Catholic parish church not only serves as a place of worship but also as a testament to the rich history and cultural evolution of the region.
The story of Herz Jesu Mattenbach is interwoven with the broader narrative of Catholicism in Winterthur. Following the Reformation in 1524, Catholic services were banned in the Canton of Zurich, and it wasn't until the 19th century that the tides began to turn. The first Catholic service post-Reformation took place in Winterthur in 1862, leading to the establishment of a vibrant Catholic community.
Mattenbach, once a sparsely populated area, began to flourish with the advent of industrialization in the late 19th century. By the 1920s, the growing Catholic population expressed a desire for their own place of worship, culminating in the purchase of land for the church on January 1, 1929. The foundation stone was laid on August 27, 1933, and by October 28, 1934, Herz Jesu Mattenbach was consecrated, marking a new chapter for the local Catholic community.
Herz Jesu Mattenbach is strategically located at the intersection of Unterer Deutweg and Zeughausstrasse, presenting its striking façade to passersby. Unlike traditional churches, it is oriented towards the southeast. The church's design is a longitudinal structure with an attached bell tower housing a harmonious four-bell chime, crafted by Fritz Hamm.
The church’s exterior is a blend of modernist influences, evident in the large round arch on its façade, which houses a statue of Christ revealing the Sacred Heart, a nod to the church’s name. The monumental design reflects the aspirations of its creators during a time of economic hardship, aiming to establish a lasting and impressive spiritual landmark.
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Upon entering Herz Jesu Mattenbach, visitors are greeted by a vestibule beneath the organ loft, leading into the main nave through three swinging doors. The interior is bathed in a warm, yellow light, thanks to the high rectangular windows that allow sunlight to flood the space. The church’s design emphasizes its monumental scale, guiding the faithful towards the elevated altar area.
The church’s interior underwent significant changes post-Vatican II, with a focus on enhancing the communal aspect of worship. A notable feature is the semicircular wooden choir wall, which can be adjusted to suit the size of the congregation, providing a sense of intimacy within the vast space.
The artistic heart of Herz Jesu Mattenbach includes eight stained glass windows by Giuseppe Scartezzini, dating back to 1934/35. These windows add a vibrant touch to the otherwise serene interior. The church’s organ, inaugurated in 1969, is a mechanical masterpiece from Mönch and Prachtel, boasting 33 registers across three manuals and a pedal. This instrument is complemented by a smaller organ positive used for more intimate services.
Recent renovations from 2017 to 2018 by Fässler and Partner have ensured that Herz Jesu Mattenbach continues to shine, with updates including the gilding of the choir wall and a terracotta-style finish for the Stations of the Cross.
Herz Jesu Mattenbach is more than just a church; it is a cornerstone of the local community. Together with other Catholic parishes in Winterthur, it forms part of the largest Catholic parish in the Canton of Zurich. Its presence is a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of the Catholic community in the region.
Whether you are drawn by its historical significance, architectural beauty, or spiritual offerings, Herz Jesu Mattenbach invites visitors to explore a slice of Winterthur’s rich cultural tapestry. Its walls echo with stories of faith, perseverance, and community, making it a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring this vibrant Swiss city.
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