Two Hildegard relics. That’s what they say rests within the altar of the Katholische Kapelle St. Rochus. Can you imagine? Relics of Saint Hildegard of Bingen tucked away in this unassuming chapel.
This is the Katholische Kapelle St. Rochus. Originally built in 1666 during a devastating plague year it has a long history. It’s a testament to faith resilience and the enduring power of hope. The chapel stood as a beacon during a time of immense suffering. People came here seeking solace and strength.
The original building was sadly destroyed. It didn’t survive the French Revolutionary Wars of 1795. But the spirit of St. Rochus lived on. A second chapel was erected in 1814 after a typhoid epidemic. This time soldiers returning from the Battle of Leipzig brought the disease. Goethe even attended the dedication ceremony. Imagine the scene. The community celebrating rebirth after such loss.
Unfortunately tragedy struck again. Lightning struck the second chapel in 1889. The chapel burned down. Only a Baroque statue of St. Rochus at the high altar remained.
The current Neo-Gothic structure dates from 1893 to 1895. It’s a beautiful building. Designed by Freiburg master builder Max Meckel it is a testament to the craftsmanship of its builders. The Berlin stonecutters Zeidler & Wimmel contributed to this impressive structure. A small Bethlehem Chapel was also built under the main chapel’s east window. This recalls an earlier chapel from the Crusader era.
The Katholische Kapelle St. Rochus isn’t just a building. It’s a living piece of history. It’s a place of pilgrimage. Its doors have witnessed centuries of prayers pleas and acts of faith. It’s a powerful symbol of resilience. The chapel continues to serve its community offering a space for reflection prayer and connection. It still holds within its walls two precious relics of St. Hildegard. Take a moment to reflect on this. Imagine the stories these walls could tell. Stories of faith hope and healing. Stories that resonate even today.