The Church of Hérémence

An Architectural Masterpiece in the Heart of the Village

Carved from raw concrete, the Saint-Nicolas Church of Hérémence is as bold as it is unexpected. Designed by Basel architect Walter Förderer, this brutalist-style building resembles a massive rock that has landed in the middle of the village — a block in which the architect claims to have sculpted a church.

Laid in 1968 and inaugurated in 1971, the church was initially met with criticism from the press in French-speaking Switzerland. Today, it is a proud symbol for the locals and a celebrated example of Swiss architectural heritage.

Built shortly after the colossal construction of the Grande Dixence dam, the church shares the same material — concrete — and the same spirit of modernity. Often referred to as the "little sister of the dam," it represents the bridge between the village’s traditional life and the transformative hydroelectric era. More than just a church, it stands as a tribute to a generation and its story.

Don’t be put off by its monumental silhouette. Step inside and you’ll be surprised by the light, the acoustics, the symbolism... A free sound and light presentation reveals the secrets of this one-of-a-kind space.

Not a fan of concrete? That might change... One thing is certain: this church will not leave you indifferent.

 Want to dive deeper? The guide “The Church of Saint-Nicolas in Hérémence” by Anne-Fanny Cotting and Carole Schaub was published for its 50th anniversary. Available at the tourist office and at Edelweiss Market for CHF 16.-