St. John’s Church is the second sacred building and also one of the most famous sculpture churches by Walter Maria Förderer, a Swiss sculptor, architect, university teacher and politician. He learned his craft through a voluntary traineeship with the well-known Basel architect Hermann Baur.

The church sculpture is characterised by Förderer’s polymorphous forms and interlocking volumes. The complex, which besides the church includes a chapel, rectory, accommodation and school, fits in well in Lucerne’s Würzenbach district. Fabrizio Brentini described the interior of the church as a “grotto-like hollow space with a highlighted altar area” that conveys a sense of security.

Heritage protected since 2024.

The church underwent an extensive interior renovation in 2001. The architects Hans Cometti and Arthur Welti implemented the colour concept “Silence” by artist Monika Kiss Horvath. It emphasises the nuanced, spiritual side of Förderer and adds some lightness and serenity to its monumental character. The colour spectrum ranges from sky blue in the altar area and from mandarin to grapefruit and the pomegranate red of the organ. The chancel was redesigned by Anton Egloff and a new lighting concept was developed by Charles Keller. In 2011, the parish hall was converted into the multipurpose Würzenbachsaal.

In 2024, the entire St. Johannes complex, including the church, parish centre and rectory, was added to the cantonal register of monuments. Further conservation measures include the renovation of the historic windows and the inner courtyard. The church remains in use, while concepts for additional and hybrid uses of the building are currently being explored (last updated on September 1, 2026). 

Special thanks to Karin Bürki!