Gruft Vietinghoff-Schell

Were the Vietinghoff-Schells truly touched by tragedy or did they orchestrate their own misfortunes? Let’s explore this question at the Gruft Vietinghoff-Schell. This unassuming vault holds the remains of a prominent family. Their history, interwoven with the very fabric of Essen, is one of noble beginnings, far-flung adventures, and ultimately, a quiet end here in Rellinghausen. The Gruft Vietinghoff-Schell, constructed in 1835, serves as the final resting place for members of the Westphalian line of this ancient family. Their story begins in 1230 with brothers Henricus, Theodericus, and Winimarus de Vitinghoven, documented as ministerials of the Bishop of Münster. The family’s ancestral home, the Vittinghoff Mansion near Essen-Rellinghausen, was a testament to their status. Over time, the family name evolved, with branches adopting variations like Vittinghoff, Vietinghoff, and Schell. Some members joined the Teutonic Order, venturing to Livonia and other Baltic regions in the 14th century. Those remaining in Germany often added “Schell” to their name. The Vietinghoff-Schells held the hereditary office of Erbdrosten of Essen Abbey from 1456 until its secularization in 1803. Their coat of arms, featuring golden balls or seashells on a black bar, adorned their properties. In the 15th century, Johann van den Vitinchaven, also known as Schele, acquired the nearby Haus opm berge, later renamed Schloss Schellenberg. This became their new seat after selling the Vittinghoff Mansion. Fast forward to the 19th century. Industrialization crept closer to Schloss Schellenberg. A coal mine and a noisy cable car disrupted the family’s tranquility. They relocated to Schloss Kalbeck, acquired through marriage in 1838. The last male heir of the Vittinghoff-Schell line died in 1993. The estates passed to the Freiherren Spies von Büllesheim. Gruft Vietinghoff-Schell thus stands as a poignant reminder of a noble family’s journey through time. Their story echoes within these walls, a tale of ambition, adaptation, and finally, rest.