Reformed Church of Rüschlikon

100 Years of the Bell Installation

The history of the Reformed Church of Rüschlikon spans more than 700 years. As early as the 12th century, a first place of worship known as the “Bergkilchli” existed, and in 1314 a chapel dedicated to Saint Nicholas is mentioned for the first time in written records. Until the early 18th century, Rüschlikon remained linked to Kilchberg and became largely independent in 1721. The parish became fully independent in 1864. The renovation of 1926 had a lasting impact on the church tower and its bells. The tower acquired its present appearance with distinctive clock faces and a characteristic pyramidal roof. At the same time, five new bells cast by the Rüetschi bell foundry in Aarau were installed.

The Five bells

Each bell has its own name, characteristic tone, and symbolic meaning. Together, the five bells form a peal that once shaped the daily rhythm of the village and today remains a familiar part of its soundscape. The inauguration of the new peal and the ceremonial raising of the bells in 1926 was a significant event for the village of Rüschlikon. Young and old alike gathered for a festive celebration. To this day, the bells remain an audible part of the village, illustrating how the meaning and perception of shared traditions change over time.

Niklaus	Sunday bell	E♭	1’500 kg	“The heavens declare the glory of God.”
Regula	11 a.m. prayer bell	F	1’050 kg	“The eyes of all look to you, O Lord, and you give them their food at the proper time.”
Cecilia	wedding bell	G	760 kg	“Praise the Lord, my soul, and all that is within me, praise his holy name.”
Marianne	evening prayer bell	B♭	440 kg	“Abide with us, Lord Jesus Christ, for evening has now come.”
Magdalene	funeral bell	C	300 kg	“Death has been swallowed up in victory.”