A golden chalice a sacred theft a chapel’s birth. That’s the story of the Kapelle in Essen. Right here where we stand a small unassuming chapel stands. It hides a fascinating history.
In 1516 a much smaller wooden chapel stood on this very spot. It was a simple structure a timber-framed building resting on a stone base. Its interior was plastered and adorned with paintings. We know little about that first Kapelle. Its origins are somewhat mysterious.
However we do know why it was built. During a religious festival in nearby Rellinghausen a thief stole a golden chalice containing consecrated hosts. The thief only wanted the chalice. He discarded the holy hosts under a bush. This seemingly insignificant bush marked a sacred spot. A place where the divine was found again. The tiny chapel then called Capelle Corporis Christi was built to mark this miracle.
Time marched on. The first Kapelle became dilapidated. In 1693 Conrad Fischer was commissioned to build a new one. This new structure was completed in 1701. It lasted for many years undergoing changes and renovations. Between 1841 and 1843 six of its twelve windows were bricked up. The entrance on the north facade was also closed.
Then from 1973 to 1975 restoration work was carried out. This work uncovered valuable insights into its construction and the many alterations over the centuries. These renovations revealed much of the chapel’s history. It’s a testament to the importance of preservation.
The Kapelle was placed under monument protection in 1985. It stands as a silent witness to centuries of history. This unassuming building tells a powerful story. It is a story of faith resilience and divine intervention. A story we can still feel today. Here we stand before a small yet profoundly significant structure. Reflect on the miracles it represents. Remember the golden chalice the discarded hosts the resilience of faith. The Kapelle’s story is a powerful reminder of the enduring strength of belief.