Saint Barbara chapel

Nestled in the heart of Merano, the Saint Barbara Chapel, locally known as Cappella di Santa Barbara, stands as a testament to Gothic architecture and historical continuity. This enchanting octagonal structure, with its unique design and storied past, invites visitors to explore its sacred halls and discover the layers of history embedded within its walls.

The History of Saint Barbara Chapel

The origins of the Saint Barbara Chapel date back to 1422 when construction began on this site, replacing an older charnel house dedicated to the Archangel Michael. The chapel was completed and consecrated in 1450, serving as a cemetery chapel for Merano's old city graveyard until 1848. The chapel was dedicated to Saints Michael, Barbara, and Sebastian, reflecting its spiritual significance and the community's devotion.

Designed by the renowned architect Hans von Burghausen, the chapel's construction reflects the Gothic style prevalent during that era. The building underwent significant restoration in 1983, preserving its historical integrity while allowing modern visitors to appreciate its ancient beauty.

Architectural Marvels

The Saint Barbara Chapel is an architectural gem, featuring a two-story octagonal central structure topped with a charming roof lantern. The upper level, accessible to visitors, once hosted funeral services, while the lower level functioned as a crypt. The absence of buttresses, a common Gothic feature, is compensated by bright stone blocks at the octagon's corners, providing both structural support and aesthetic appeal.

The chapel's façade is adorned with a fresco of Saint Christopher, dating back to around 1450, a reminder of the ancient path that once led to the nearby village of Dorf Tirol. This artwork served as a spiritual safeguard for travelers, believed to protect them from sudden death.

Interior Splendor

Inside, the chapel's upper room spans 13 meters and is crowned by a star-ribbed vault, with a keystone featuring an image of Saint Barbara, crafted around 1440. The interior walls, once richly painted in 1629, still display fragments of their original artistry, including three consecration crosses and a fresco of the Volto Santo, hidden behind the Immaculate Altar.

The left altar, dating from around 1769, showcases the work of Johann Pendl, with side figures by Josef Holzknecht. The gable painting, depicting the Christ Child and God the Father, is attributed to Matthias Pußjäger. On the right, a baroque altar presents another Pußjäger masterpiece, illustrating Saint Barbara's defiance against idolatry. The side figures, later additions by sculptor Gregor Schwenzengast, enhance the altar's narrative.

Relics and Artifacts

Both altars house large glass reliquary shrines from around 1730, each containing the adorned skeleton of a martyr from the Roman catacombs. Between these altars, a carved altar acquired in 1911 from the antique trade is displayed. Although originally from southern Lower Saxony and not Tyrol, it fits seamlessly with the chapel's aesthetic. The central shrine features a Madonna and Child, flanked by scenes of the Annunciation, Nativity, and Adoration of the Magi. The wings display 16 saints, mostly added during the Historicism period, while the neo-Gothic spire completes the ensemble.

A Visit to the Crypt

The lower level, once a charnel house crypt, is supported by four round granite columns beneath a star-vaulted ceiling. This serene space houses two altars, offering a glimpse into the chapel's function as a resting place for the deceased.

In conclusion, the Saint Barbara Chapel is not just a historic monument but a living narrative of Merano's past. Its Gothic elegance and spiritual ambiance make it a must-visit for anyone exploring this charming Italian town. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a curious traveler, the chapel promises a journey into a bygone era, echoing with stories of faith and artistry.