Is this some kind of sanctuary? Here we are, standing before the Pestkapelle St. Rochus, also known as St. Peter’s Chapel. This chapel, while small, holds a poignant history intertwined with Cochem’s past. The Pestkapelle St. Rochus, as its name suggests, has a connection to times of hardship. The first chapel on this site, possibly dating back to the 15th century, was likely built during a time when the plague ravaged Cochem.
The name “Peterskapelle” comes from an engraving by Braun and Hogenberg that depicts the chapel as “S. Pettersberg”. It appears there was once a hostel adjacent to the chapel. A weathered red sandstone keystone, potentially from this period, sits above the west portal. Despite its condition, you can just make out a high relief of the Madonna and Child seated on clouds.
The Pestkapelle St. Rochus stands as a testament to the faith and resilience of Cochem’s people during challenging times. While the exact origins remain shrouded in history, the chapel’s presence serves as a reminder of the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.