Predigerkirche (Preacher's Church), Basel

The Preacher's Church (Predigerkirche) stands as a remarkable Christian Catholic church in Basel, nestled near the University Hospital in the suburban quarter. Originally built between 1233 and 1237 as a Dominican monastery church, it underwent significant Gothic transformation during a reconstruction period from 1262 to 1269. Its choir, consecrated in 1269 by Albertus Magnus, Bishop of Regensburg, marked its prominence as one of the first Gothic-style churches along the Upper Rhine.

The church's history bears the scars of the 1356 Basel earthquake, which necessitated extensive renovations. During this period, frescoes depicting Mary, John the Baptist, and Dominican saint Vincent Ferrer were created. In the 15th century, it served as a key venue for participants of the Council of Basel (1431–1449).

Distinctive features include the People Church (Leutkirche), separated from the choir by a partially transparent rood screen, and an early 15th-century baptismal font adorned with rose motifs. The vaults' keystones showcase simple leaf patterns and symbols of the evangelists. A stone bell tower, crowned with an open lantern and tracery, replaced the original wooden roof turret in 1423 under the direction of Master Johannes, known as Cun, with local execution by Hans Bofferlin.

The church endured the destructive iconoclasm of 1529, losing nearly all its furnishings, and the monastery was dissolved. Over time, it served various functions: the choir became a fruit and salt store in the 17th century, and its former monastery garden housed Basel University’s botanical collection from 1692 to 1836. After significant renovations in 1876–1877, the church found a new purpose with the Christian Catholic community. Its treasures include a gilded medieval cross and three contemporary icons from 2003 depicting the Mother of God, baby Jesus, and the archangels Gabriel and Michael.

The church’s organ is another highlight. Built by Johann Andreas Silbermann between 1767 and 1769, it has undergone several relocations and upgrades, most recently in 1979 by Metzler Orgelbau. The instrument features 28 stops, mechanical actions, and a baroque-style west gallery, continuing the church’s legacy as a place of spiritual and cultural resonance.