Bründlkapelle

Tucked away in the Austrian countryside near Groß Sierning sits the Bründlkapelle, a testament to faith and healing. A “holy Bründl,” or small spring, existed here as far back as 1820, its waters believed to possess healing properties. Some even whisper of a “right-turning intensity,” a mystical energy emanating from the spring. Initially, a simple statue and image of Mary and Child marked the spring. In 1849, a small chapel, devoid of a tower, was built, sheltered by four chestnut trees. The spring’s crystal-clear water drew believers, their donations funding the chapel’s expansion in 1913. On June 7, 1914, the expanded sanctuary, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, was consecrated. Bishop Johannes Baptist Rößler granted permission for Masses to be held at the Bründlkapelle, but only on weekdays and with the local priest’s consent. This privilege, however, came with conditions: the chapel could not be used for secular purposes, had to be well-maintained, and properly equipped. This decree was to be displayed within the Bründlkapelle for all to see. The very next day, the first Mass was celebrated by Father Franz Tiefenbacher. The Bründlkapelle now stood complete in its neo-Gothic splendor. Its tower, home to a 63 kg bell, dominated the facade. Benches nestled within the niches of the buttresses offered respite. The interior remained simple: a pointed barrel vault leading to the apse, illuminated by four pointed arched windows. The altar’s base was of brick, while the table and top were crafted from wood. The Bründlkapelle could accommodate around 50 people. In 1969, a 120 cm wooden sculpture of the Madonna and Child, created by Viennese sculptor Josef Sieberer, graced the chapel. Later, in 1978, two limewood reliefs depicting the Crucifixion and Resurrection were added. By 1989, the Bründlkapelle needed exterior renovation, with interior work commencing in 2013, a year before its centennial. Former mayor and honorary citizen Ferdinand Hierner donated an electric bell system for his 80th birthday. Since the summer of 2014, the Bründl bell has called the faithful to morning, noon, and evening prayers. The renovated Bründlkapelle, with its new altar, was blessed and reopened on September 13, 2014, continuing its legacy as a place of solace and devotion.