“An image of serenity amid the trees.” That’s what comes to mind when you see the ehemalige Waldandacht. This chapel in the 17th district has a special story. It connects faith and gratitude.
In 1869, a factory owner named Fernau from Hernals survived an accident. He was so grateful that he placed a picture of Mary on a pine tree at the edge of the woods. This simple act started it all. People began to gather there to pray. Other religious images were added to the tree.
By 1881, the area had become a popular spot. Thaner, an industrialist from Hernals, provided benches and prayer chairs for the Waldandacht. Sadly, the area soon became marred by the excesses of a fair. Prince Schwarzenberg, the landowner, stepped in to restore order. He erected a statue of Mary donated by a benefactor.
After World War I, things changed again. Garden plots and small houses sprang up nearby. In 1931, religious services began at the Waldandacht on August 15. A fundraising effort started to build a proper chapel. Hans Sluka designed the chapel that would offer shelter from the weather. The altar featured an image of “Our Dear Lady of Monte Serrato.” In 1936, the chapel was consecrated by Auxiliary Bishop Franz Kamprath.
Tragedy struck during World War II. Aerial bombs damaged the chapel. Georg Lippert rebuilt it. In 1947, Cardinal Theodor Innitzer reconsecrated the chapel. A replica of the “Black Madonna” from Maria Einsiedeln in Switzerland now graces the altar. Jakob Adlhart the Younger from Hallein created the altar and candlesticks. To the right of the entrance stands a statue of the Swiss national saint, Nikolaus von der Flüe. This Swiss connection reflects gratitude for the aid provided by Swiss Caritas after World War II.
Water damage led to renovations. In 1989, Archabbot Franz Bachler reconsecrated the Waldandacht. So, the ehemalige Waldandacht stands as a testament to faith. It shows gratitude and resilience through changing times. The ehemalige Waldandacht is more than just a chapel. It is a reminder of community and thankfulness.