Klosterkirche Königsfelden 1310/30
Tucked-away in a lovely park just a few minutes walk from the Brugg train station, this medieval church looks deceivingly common and plain to the uninformed tourist. Once the burial place of Kings and Queens, Knights and Nobles, history comes alive in magnificent stained glass windows and informative displays.
Known as one of the finest memorials to the Habsburgs, Koenigsfelden is located above the ruins of a large Roman city, not far from the Habsburg family castle. German King Albrecht I fell victim to a political feud and was murdered by his nephew, John of Swabia. Queen Elizabeth laid the foundation stone for the church in 1310 and established a royal religious foundation, while at the same time erecting a monument to Habsburg power at the western edge of the family territory. Agnes, Queen of Hungary and daughter of Albrecht I and Elizabeth, oversaw the building of the church after her mother's death in 1313. From 1317 to her own death in 1364, Koenigsfelden experienced its golden age under her authority. Political uprisings and the Reformation took their toll on many Habsburg sites in Switzerland, this one included. The booklet "Koenigsfelden" by Emil Maurer, from which much of the information on this page is taken, provides greater detail of their effects on the abbey.
Once inside, the modern-day visitor is taken by the simplicity of the vast naive. Small stained glass windows along the south and north walls provide a taste of what is to be seen in the choir. Along the South wall is a restored panel to the knights who perished along with Leopold I at the battle of Sempach. They along with members of the Habsburg family were buried in the crypt (inaccessible). Small displays through-out the deconsecrated church highlight the importance of the site in German, French, and English. The crowning glory of Klosterkirche is the cycle of stained glass windows in the choir. It is strongly suggested that visitors purchase the booklet available for 5CHF that describe the history, craftsmanship, restoration, and significance of these fine works of art.
It is worth noting that the surviving monastery building and Bailiff's quarters are now part of a psychiatric hospital. Therefore it is largely inaccessible to the public and discretion is advised when taking pictures. A small cafe in near the entrance of the church provides refreshments with indoor and outdoor seating.
Opening hours: November-March Tuesday-Sunday 1pm-4pm
April-October Tuesday-Sunday 10am-5pm
Fees: Admission to church is 5CHF. If you wish to take photos, please ask first. Flash is prohibited. Postcards and books are for sale.
Contact Info: Klosterkirche Königsfelden
5210 Windisch
Phone +41 (0)56 441 88 33
http://www.ag.ch/klosterkk/en/pub/index.php
From Brugg AG train station, follow underpass signs to walk toward Windisch/Vindonissa. Continue to walk straight on Steinackerstrasse then turn left at Untere Klosterzelgstrasse toward the busy main road (Zurcherstrasse). Cross at the "zebra stripe" pedestrian crossing and turn right, walking about 1 minute to the first road. Turn left into the heavily wooded park and follow signage to the Klosterkirche. You will arrive at the church within 7 minutes of leaving the train station.
For informational purposes only. I am not responsible for any losses incurred during the use of this info. Always contact the site to confirm opening hours and admission fees. Sites may close for special events and renovations.