St. Johann Church
A historic church transformed into a vibrant hub for events, dining, and modern co-working.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter exploration
St. Johann Church
Best Time
Quieter exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic church transformed into a vibrant hub for events, dining, and modern co-working.
"A unique blend of history and modern utility, offering a memorable experience."
Check Event Schedules
Verify upcoming events to plan your visit or catch a special occasion. :calendar:
Explore the Full Complex
Discover the diverse spaces, from the nave to restaurants and co-working areas. :mag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Nave
Main Hall
Experience the grandeur of the original church nave, now a versatile event space with a rich past.
Beer Garden Ambiance
Outdoor Area
Enjoy a refreshing drink in a pleasant beer garden, a nod to the church's brewing history.
Indian Restaurant Meera
1st Floor
Savor delicious Indian cuisine with a unique view in this popular restaurant located within the complex.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Atmosphere
Beyond the Nave: Explore the Complex
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Event Schedules
Verify upcoming events to plan your visit or catch a special occasion. :calendar:
Explore the Full Complex
Discover the diverse spaces, from the nave to restaurants and co-working areas. :mag:
Enjoy the Beer Garden
Relax and soak in the history with a drink in the charming beer garden. :beer_mug:
Consider Meera Restaurant
Highly recommended Indian dining experience on the first floor. :indian_rupee:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Event Schedules
Verify upcoming events to plan your visit or catch a special occasion. :calendar:
Explore the Full Complex
Discover the diverse spaces, from the nave to restaurants and co-working areas. :mag:
Enjoy the Beer Garden
Relax and soak in the history with a drink in the charming beer garden. :beer_mug:
Consider Meera Restaurant
Highly recommended Indian dining experience on the first floor. :indian_rupee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise St. Johann Church for its unique blend of historical significance and modern functionality. The beautiful ambiance of the former church, especially the nave, is frequently highlighted, along with the pleasant beer garden and the excellent Indian restaurant, Meera. While its multi-purpose nature means it's not a traditional church visit, its adaptability is seen as a positive.
"Great spot"
Michael Kinlough
"St. John's Church rests on the foundations of a late antique chapel. This makes it, along with St. Stephen's, one of the two oldest churches in the city of Constance. It is also documented that the parish church was founded by Bishop Conrad, who consecrated St. John around 950. 250 years later, a new building was constructed, and St. John became a canonry in 1276. Sixteen years after the end of the Council of Constance, in 1434, the church received a tower. This was followed by the Reformation, iconoclasm, re-Catholicization, and secularization. In May 1813, the congregation celebrated its last service. The church was deconsecrated. The organ and all of its magnificent furnishings were donated to the surrounding churches and the cathedral. The building was to be demolished to make way for the extension of Rheingasse to Münsterplatz. It is thanks to the brewer Nikolaus Barxel that the story can continue. He acquired the church and fundamentally rebuilt the entire complex, with the exception of the nave. At the same time, in 1830, after almost 400 years, the tower also fell. From then on, beer was brewed and served. Another half-century later, the Catholic Church rediscovered the building. The "St. Johann Catholic Clubhouse in Konstanz" was founded, and the purchase price was financed through the sale of shares. Meetings, concerts, and other socially interesting events made St. Johann a place of respectful entertainment. The newly built rear building housed the printing presses of the "Konstanzer Nachrichten" and the "Deutsche Bodenseezeitung." A clubhouse, restaurant, and hotel, it served as barracks for 150 soldiers during the First World War. Subsequently, it was renovated and became a hotel again. There were tenants and new owners. The former nave remained a popular event space for many Konstanz clubs. In 1991, after the death of a long-time owner, the hotel finally ceased operations. The heirs sold it. After extensive renovations, small condominiums and various commercial spaces were created. Initially, a market hall operated in the former nave. Later, a retailer moved in. Ownership changed hands. In 1994/95, the nave and its adjoining spaces were stylishly and comprehensively renovated, subsequently successfully operating as a concept store for exceptional furniture and as a place to meet visual arts. In 2019, St. Johann's unique appeal, location, and opportunities enabled it to serve as the backdrop for the weekly SWR talk show "Talk am See mit Gaby Hauptmann."
Since fall 2021, St. Johann has been called "New Work & Innovation" and offers modern co-working spaces, virtual offices, and exciting meeting and event rooms."
Inspiring Guide
"Very interesting, and the beer garden is also very nice."
Rolf Mehrer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Johann Church is centrally located in Konstanz. It's easily accessible by public transport, with several bus stops nearby. If arriving by car, be aware that parking in the city center can be challenging. Walking from the main train station is also an option, taking about 15-20 minutes.
Yes, St. Johann Church is within walking distance of the Konstanz train station. It's a pleasant stroll through the city, making it convenient for day-trippers arriving by train.
Parking near St. Johann Church can be limited. There are several public parking garages in the city center, such as Parkhaus Marktstätte or Parkhaus Bahnhof, which are a short walk away. It's advisable to check real-time parking availability if driving.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the general areas of St. Johann Church, including the nave and exterior, is typically free. However, specific events held within the church may require tickets. It's best to check the official website or local event listings for any ticketed occasions.
As St. Johann Church now functions as a multi-use venue with co-working spaces, restaurants, and event areas, there isn't a single set of 'opening hours' for the entire complex. Individual businesses within the complex will have their own operating times. The nave is often accessible for events or by arrangement.
While St. Johann Church is a historic religious building, its primary function has shifted. It's not a regular active parish church with weekly services in the traditional sense. However, special religious events or concerts might be held, and these would typically be announced.
Generally, there is no admission fee to see the nave itself, especially when it's not being used for a private event. The space is often open for visitors to appreciate its architecture and historical significance. However, this can vary depending on ongoing renovations or scheduled activities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic nave, enjoy a meal at the Indian restaurant Meera, relax in the beer garden, or attend various events and concerts held on-site. The complex also houses modern co-working spaces and meeting rooms.
Yes, the Indian restaurant Meera is located on the first floor and is highly recommended. The complex also features other commercial spaces that may include cafes or dining options, and there's a beer garden for refreshments.
Absolutely. The historic nave and other spaces within the St. Johann Church complex are frequently used for meetings, concerts, and various events, making it a popular venue in Konstanz.
St. Johann Church is one of the oldest churches in Konstanz, with foundations dating back to late antiquity. It has a long history, including periods as a canonry, a brewery, a hotel, and now a modern event and co-working space, reflecting the city's evolution.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted inside the nave and public areas of St. Johann Church. However, if you plan to use a professional camera or tripod for commercial purposes, it's advisable to seek permission beforehand.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic nave offers stunning architectural shots. The exterior, especially with its blend of old and new elements, also provides great photo opportunities. The beer garden can be picturesque during warmer months.
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed inside the nave. Capture the impressive architecture and historical ambiance. For professional shoots, always inquire about specific regulations.
Visitors often capture the grandeur of the nave, the unique atmosphere of the beer garden, and the architectural details that showcase its long history. It's also a popular spot for event photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💼 Business Travelers & Remote Workers
🍽️ Foodies & Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The Evolution of St. Johann Church
However, brewer Nikolaus Barxel acquired the church in 1830, fundamentally rebuilding the complex (except the nave) and transforming it into a brewery and establishment. The tower, which had stood for nearly 400 years, was demolished in the same year. Decades later, the Catholic Church rediscovered the building, founding the 'St. Johann Catholic Clubhouse.' It became a hub for meetings, concerts, and social events, even housing printing presses for local newspapers. During World War I, it served as barracks for 150 soldiers before returning to its hotel function.
After several ownership changes and renovations, the former nave continued to be a popular event space. In 1991, the hotel ceased operations, and the property was sold. Following extensive renovations, the space was repurposed into condominiums and commercial areas. The nave, in particular, found new life as a market hall, then a retailer, and eventually a concept store for furniture and visual arts. Since 2021, it has been rebranded as 'New Work & Innovation,' offering modern co-working, virtual offices, and event facilities, demonstrating its remarkable adaptability through centuries of change.
Experiencing St. Johann Church Today: More Than Just a Church
Beyond the nave, the complex has embraced its role as a modern hub. The Indian restaurant Meera, located on the first floor, is a highly praised dining destination, offering a culinary experience that complements the historical setting. For a more relaxed atmosphere, the beer garden provides a pleasant spot to unwind, a nod to the building's period as a brewery. The recent transformation into 'New Work & Innovation' signifies its embrace of contemporary needs, offering co-working spaces, virtual offices, and meeting rooms for professionals and creatives. This blend of historical charm and modern functionality makes St. Johann Church a dynamic and engaging destination in Konstanz.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit