|
Amsoldingen’s church is one of the oldest buildings in the canton of Bern. It rises up southwest of Thun in a beautiful landscape that is broken up by hills and lakes. The complete church complex includes the rectory built in 1670 as well as the castle (a former provost’s residence) that has been privately owned since 1496.
The Romanesque pillar basilica, which today has three aisles, was first mentioned in the 10th/11th century and was once consecrated to St. Mauritius. As centuries passed, it underwent several conversions and extensions.
The impressive tower on the south side was erected between 1354 and 1513. The church interior, which is considered the most distinguished amongst the so-called Lake Thun churches, was substantially restored to its original condition during the last complete restoration of the premises at the end of the 1970s.
The choir windows date from 1985.
| 
|
|
Beneath the eastern section of the building lie the remains of the foundation of a smaller church, believed to date from the 8th century. It is possible that a Roman temple already stood on this site in pre-Christian times.
Several items of historical interest can be found in the church, including the early Gothic octagonal baptismal font from the 14th century, remnants of mural paintings from the 13th century, the Johann Jakob Werner organ from 1812, the reconstructed crypt below the choir stairs, as well as the small museum space that displays art history exhibits from the previous church.
| 
|
®