Have you ever felt the peace of a secluded chapel nestled high in the vineyards? The Maria-Schmerz-Kapelle in Randersacker offers just that. It is a small pilgrimage chapel in the neo-Gothic style. Its location is breathtaking. It sits on a hillside between the Pfülben and Lämmerberg vineyards. From the chapel you have a wonderful view over Randersacker and the Main valley.
The story of the Maria-Schmerz-Kapelle is a testament to community spirit and perseverance. It began with a suggestion from Randersacker citizen Anton Römmelmeier to create a Stations of the Cross. After his death in 1891 his idea found support from the local priest Johann Michael Karl Sersi. A Stations of the Cross association was founded. It had 125 members by 1896. Internal disagreements later reduced membership to 40. The arrival of a new priest Johannes Ruppert brought renewed enthusiasm. In 1898 construction began on the steps and the first three Stations of the Cross. By spring 1901 a plot of land had been bought above the Stations of the Cross for the chapel itself. The final station of the cross would stand there.
Another group a veterans’ association called the Kampfgenossenverein also wanted a chapel in the vineyards. They formed their own building committee in the summer of 1902. Realizing the benefit of collaboration both groups eventually merged to focus solely on building the chapel. On March 25 1903 the foundation stone was laid. It was consecrated by Father Johannes Ruppert. Bishop Ferdinand von Schlör dedicated the Maria-Schmerz-Kapelle on July 26 1903.
The exterior is striking. The church tower has a pointed slate-covered helmet. A statue of Saint Urban patron saint of winegrowers is above the church portal. Stone sculptor Kemmer created it from a model by Heinz Schiestl. It was dedicated on March 25 1908 the anniversary of the foundation stone laying. A covered viewing platform with benches sits in front of the chapel.
Inside the chapel is just as special. The benches feature carved hounds. These were created by Heinz Schiestl. The stained-glass windows are donations from Randersacker families. The sorrowful Mother of God in the choir area is the work of sculptor Arthur Schleglmünig.
Pilgrimages from the parish of St Stephanus in Randersacker take place during the church fair in July and on the patron saint’s day the second Sunday of September. This small chapel holds within its walls a wealth of history devotion and community. So step inside and feel the devotion that has resonated through this peaceful place for over a century.