“A chapel moved? You’re joking right?” That’s what many thought when they heard about the Chapel of St Mary Magdalene in Prague. This isn’t just any chapel. It’s a survivor a testament to human ingenuity. Built in 1635 it stands as a charming example of early Baroque architecture. Its original architect was the Italian Giovanni Battista de Barrifis a master of his time. The chapel’s construction was overseen by Provost Jan Chrysostom Trembský a Cyriak Knight.
The Chapel of St Mary Magdalene wasn’t always in its current location. Initially it stood near the then-named Svatopluk Čech Bridge. For years it served various purposes a place of worship a storehouse even a pigeon coop. Imagine goats and pigeons roaming within these hallowed walls. It’s quite a peculiar history.
In the mid-1950s the Chapel of St Mary Magdalene faced demolition. A planned roadway and the colossal Stalin monument threatened its existence. But then came Academician Stanislav Bechyně a renowned structural engineer. He proposed a daring solution. Moving the entire chapel.
This wasn’t a simple task. The Chapel of St Mary Magdalene was carefully reinforced internally with a wooden structure and steel rings. It was also underpinned by a reinforced concrete crown. This ensured its structural integrity during the move. Then using rails and a pushing mechanism the chapel was relocated 30.75 meters upstream to its present location in 1956. It was the first time a historical building was moved like this in Czechoslovakia.
Today the Chapel of St Mary Magdalene stands as a symbol of perseverance. Its relocation is a remarkable feat of engineering. The chapel’s interior boasts beautiful frescoes depicting biblical plants. A stunning coffered ceiling adds to its charm. This quiet chapel holds a fascinating story waiting to be discovered. Visit the Chapel of St Mary Magdalene. It is a unique sight. Marvel at the impressive structural engineering. Reflect on its resilience. The Chapel of St Mary Magdalene a quiet witness to Prague’s rich history.