Chapel Bruder Klaus

The Bruder Klaus chapel in Wachendorf is a remarkable and unique structure in the Eifel landscape. This world-famous building designed by the Swiss architect Peter Zumthor is an interesting attraction in the Eifel.

The idea, the creation and construction of the Bruder Klaus Feld-Chapelle is a private project, not funded by government or local municipality but privately. The German farmer Hermann-Josef Scheidtweiler wanted to make a chapel in honor of his / patron, the Swiss Bruder Klaus.

Bruder Klaus or Nikolaus von Flue was a Swiss saint who lived from 1417 to 1487. In Switzerland, but also in many other countries such as Germany Bruder Klaus is seen as patron. There are also many churches and buildings named after him including so the chapel in Wachendorf.

Farmer Hermann-Josef Scheidweiler wanted to design and build a chapel. Previously, he approached the famous Swiss architect Peter Zumthor. He had no idea who this famous architect, he had read the name in a newspaper and decided to approach him for his idea.

Architect Peter Zumthor decided to take the job as Bruder Klaus was the favorite patron of his mother and in addition a countryman.

The star architect, who usually would obviously be far too expensive for such a personal project, was able to reduce costs by a technically simple, yet unique design. Moreover, the greater part of the construction was done by the farmer with his family and friends.

In 2007 the construction of the field chapel was completed. After the dedication of the chapel's unique structure was placed in a foundation to ensure survival.

You have to look the total serie on my Flickr site. for separate interior.