St. Benedict's Chapel, Modern chapel in Sumvitg, Switzerland.
St. Benedict's Chapel is a contemporary church structure in Sumvitg defined by a distinctive leaf-shaped floor plan and timber walls clad in wooden shingles. The building harnesses natural light through carefully positioned windows that illuminate the interior spaces and highlight the wood grain.
The chapel was completed in 1988 following the destruction of a 13th-century predecessor by an avalanche in the mid-1980s that stood at another location. Its reconstruction on a new site marks a turning point in how the community addressed both loss and renewal.
The structure embodies a connection to its mountain community through the use of local timber and natural materials that reflect everyday building traditions. Its presence on the slope above the village shows how modern design can serve spiritual needs without abandoning regional craftsmanship.
The structure sits on a slope above Sumvitg village and is accessed via a curved walking path that approaches the eastern entrance. The uphill walk requires some effort, and visitors should be aware that snow or ice can make the path slippery during winter months.
The building's design is based on the lemniscate, a mathematical curve resembling a figure-eight shape, which determines both the outer form and the internal layout. This hidden geometric logic creates an unusual spatial experience that becomes apparent as you move through the chapel.
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