Paradieskapelle St. Martin

Did you ever hear of a chapel named after a paradise? Right here stands the Paradieskapelle St. Martin. It’s a charming little chapel nestled in the Paradies district of Konstanz. The name “Paradies” itself whispers tales of a former cloister. In the 12th century, devout women established a small religious community here. They devoted their days to prayer and caring for the sick. Later, in the 13th century, they adopted the rules of the “Clarisses” and renamed their cloister “Paradise of the Soul”. This original “paradise” moved closer to Schaffhausen in 1258. But the residents here cherished the memory of the Clarisses and their cloister. They built a chapel in the 14th century dedicated to St. Lienhard. This chapel, a testament to their devotion, was demolished in 1624 and rebuilt in 1775. Over time, this rebuilt chapel proved too small for the growing population of Paradies. So, in 1921, the community decided to take action. They purchased the old chapel from the city, demolished it, and erected the Paradieskapelle St. Martin we see today. A new patron saint, St. Martin, was chosen. The chapel boasts a beautiful Baroque altar, salvaged from the parish church of Deggenhausen. The Paradieskapelle St. Martin can accommodate about 100 people. A dedicated “Kapellenverein St. Martin im Paradies-Konstanz e.V.” diligently maintains the chapel. They rely on membership fees, donations, and fundraising to preserve this piece of local history. So, as you admire the Paradieskapelle St. Martin, remember the layers of history within its walls. From devout women to a bustling community, it stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Paradies.