St. Peter's Church, Zermatt

St. Peter's Church, also known as the English Church, stands as a symbol of the town's history and enduring ties to British visitors. This sacred place has been intertwined with the rich tapestry of Zermatt's past, playing a significant role in the resort's development and representing the golden age of alpinism. British visitors were among the first to venture to this alpine wonderland, and St. Peter's Church became an essential institution for the English-speaking community.

The idea to build an English church took shape in May 1865, and a donation list was initiated shortly thereafter. Notably, the Catholic hoteliers Alexander Seiler and Joseph Clemenz were among the first to contribute, highlighting their ecumenical and inclusive views. The tragic event of the first ascent of the Matterhorn, where several climbers lost their lives, including Lord Francis Douglas, Douglas R. Hadow, and the Reverend Charles Hudson, did not deter the initiative but rather intensified the resolve to create the church.

On 29 June 1869, a mere five years after the inception of the donation list, the foundation stone for St. Peter's Church was laid. Within a year, on 29 June 1870, the inaugural service took place, marking the beginning of the church's storied existence.

Inside this historic sanctuary, numerous plaques serve as touching memorials to mountaineers who shared deep bonds with Zermatt and its alpine wonders. Among them lies the remains of the Reverend Charles Hudson, buried beneath the main altar, a poignant reminder of his enduring connection to this sacred space.