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St. Peter's Church

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Landmark
—°10
St. Peter's Church (Liechtenstein)

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The excavations of the old St. Peter's Church in Schaan are among the most significant archaeological sites in Liechtenstein, documenting nearly 1,500 years of ecclesiastical history. On the site of the current cemetery chapel, an early Christian church from the 5th century once stood, and its original baptistery can still be seen today. Over the centuries, several new buildings and expansions followed, including a Carolingian hall church and later Romanesque and Gothic structures. The remains of the foundations provide an impressive look into the evolution of sacred architecture in the Alpine region. Of particular note is the well-preserved octagonal baptismal font, which is one of the oldest of its kind north of the Alps. The site is now organized as an open-air museum, informing visitors about the Christianization of the region. The adjacent St. Peter's Chapel also houses valuable art treasures and serves as a place of quiet reflection in the busy center of Schaan.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-6-5-1481314141060-4
Rain mm927091931471731691851211039193

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
St. Peter's Church in Schaan is the oldest church in Liechtenstein, built on Roman foundations. The interior is usually accessible during service times or by appointment.
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Typical hours
The church is typically open to the public daily, often from morning until late afternoon. Services are held regularly; visitors are asked to be quiet.
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Photography
Photography inside is usually allowed without flash to protect the historical frescoes and atmosphere. The Romanesque and Gothic elements provide worthwhile subjects.
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Time needed
A visit to the church takes about 20 to 30 minutes if you only see the interior. For a more detailed look at the architecture and history, allow 45 minutes.
Combine with
Combine the church visit with a walk through historic Schaan. Nearby Vaduz with its castle and museums is just a few minutes away.
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Getting there
St. Peter's Church is centrally located in Schaan, easily reachable on foot from the train station or bus stops. Parking is available nearby, and access by car is straightforward.
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Insider tip
Ask at the tourist office for a key to the church if it happens to be locked. The Roman-era foundations are visible in the basement area and are especially interesting.

Geography

Coordinates
47.17000, 9.48300

Facts

  • The first church on this site was constructed as early as the 5th century.
  • The octagonal baptismal font dates from the era of early Christianization.
  • Archaeological excavations between 1950 and 1960 revealed the foundations.
  • The current chapel was built over the ruins of its predecessors.
  • A total of five distinct construction phases can be identified.
  • The site is one of the country's most significant Roman and early medieval locations.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

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Sights in the town St. Peter's Church (10)

Lokomotive Tigerli

Steam locomotive of the Tigerli type, on display in Schaan.

Katholische Kirchengemeinde Buchs-Grabs

Church building in Buchs in the canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland.

fabriggli - Werdenberger Kleintheater

Small theatre in Buchs with a changing programme of plays and music.

Evangelische Kirchengemeinde Buchs

Church building in Buchs, Switzerland, for the Protestant congregation.

Schloss Werdenberg🏰 castle

Castle in the tiny town of the same name in the canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland.

Museümli🏛 museum

Museum with 4 exhibitions per year, open on Saturdays.

Greifvogelpark Buchs

Park in Buchs showing birds of prey and offering flight demonstrations.

Rietli

Nature reserve in the Buchs area, a wetland with special flora.

domus - Gallery and Museum🏛 museum

Museum of cultural history in Schaan with exhibitions on regional history.

Landweibelhäuser🏛 museum

Museum in Schaan showing historic houses and life in earlier times.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is St. Peter's Church special?
It is considered the oldest sacred site in Liechtenstein, with Roman roots.
Are there archaeological finds?
Excavations revealed remains of a Roman fort and an early Christian baptistery.
Where is the church located?
It is located in the center of Schaan, the country's largest municipality.
Is the tower Roman?
The foundation of the tower dates back to Roman fortifications.
Can you enter the church?
Yes, the church is open to visitors during the day.
St. Peter's Church: where is it located?
St. Peter's Church is located in Schaan, Liechtenstein.
St. Peter's Church: what is there to see?
Highlights include Lokomotive Tigerli, Katholische Kirchengemeinde Buchs-Grabs, fabriggli - Werdenberger Kleintheater.
St. Peter's Church: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
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