St. Michael Chapel

St. Michael Chapel, known locally as Kostol svätého Michala, is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Košice, Slovakia. This Gothic masterpiece, dating back to the 14th century, is a testament to the rich history and architectural splendor of the region. The chapel, originally serving as a cemetery chapel, is dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel, the patron saint of the deceased. Its historical significance and stunning architecture make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Košice.

The Origins and Early History

The construction of St. Michael Chapel began in the late 14th century, between 1340 and 1380. At that time, it stood next to a Romanesque church, the predecessor of the nearby St. Elizabeth Cathedral. One theory suggests that the chapel might have been intended as the sanctuary of a larger church that was never completed. Another theory posits that it originally served as an ossuary, where bones exhumed from the cemetery around the cathedral were stored. The chapel also hosted requiem masses for the souls of the departed.

15th Century Turmoil

The 15th century was a tumultuous period for St. Michael Chapel. It suffered significant damage during an artillery attack by Polish-Lithuanian forces, marking the first use of artillery against the city. The chapel, along with the cathedral and the city hospital, bore the brunt of the attack. Despite this, the chapel endured and continued to stand as a symbol of resilience.

First Written Record and Szatmári Renovation

The first written record of St. Michael Chapel dates back to 1452, in a document issued by the mayor of Košice. This document detailed a bequest from Mikuláš Schonnelzer and his wife Barbara, who donated a vineyard to ensure perpetual light before the Blessed Sacrament in the chapel.

In 1508, the chapel underwent its most significant renovation under the direction of George Szatmári, the royal chief chancellor and later Archbishop of Esztergom. The renovation nearly doubled the chapel's size, transforming it from a slender and elegant structure into a more robust and imposing building. The interior spaces were connected by arcades, and a new sacristy was built on the southern side.

Fire and Reformation

In 1556, a devastating fire swept through Košice, severely damaging the chapel. The fire destroyed many buildings in the city, including churches, monasteries, the town hall, and parts of the city’s fortifications. The city council had to request tax exemptions from Emperor Ferdinand I to aid in the city's recovery.

During the Reformation, the chapel changed hands multiple times between Catholics and Protestants. It was even used by Slovak-speaking Protestants, earning it the nickname Slovak Church (Windische Kirche). After the suppression of Francis II Rákóczi's uprising in 1711, the chapel was returned to the Catholics, and the surrounding cemetery was transformed into a park due to public health concerns.

Renovations in the 19th and 20th Centuries

In 1821, extensive renovations were carried out in preparation for the centenary of the Košice Diocese. The renovations included the construction of a new square tower, designed by Otto Sztehlo, and the restoration of the surrounding terrain to its original level. Further restoration work in 1904, led by Professor E. Schulek, aimed to return the chapel to its original Gothic elegance. This included the removal of the massive Szatmári addition and the reconstruction of the original sacristy and oratory.

Modern Restoration and Current Use

In the late 20th century, the chapel underwent another round of restorations, revealing extensive medieval decorations. The restoration, carried out between 1998 and 2006 by experts from the Association for the Restoration and Conservation of Monuments, ensured that the chapel was preserved for future generations.

Today, St. Michael Chapel stands as a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and a symbol of the rich history of Košice. Its intricate carvings, stunning stained glass, and serene interior make it a perfect place for reflection and admiration. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to St. Michael Chapel is sure to be a highlight of your time in Košice.