In the charming town of Rietberg, nestled in the heart of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, stands the enchanting St. Johannes Nepomuk Kapelle, also known by its local name, St.-Johannes-Nepomuk-Kapelle. This exquisite chapel, dedicated to St. John of Nepomuk, the patron saint of the County of Rietberg, is a true gem of late Baroque architecture and a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage.
The story of St. Johannes Nepomuk Kapelle begins with the deep reverence for St. John of Nepomuk, who was canonized by Pope Benedict XIII in 1729. The devotion to this saint in Rietberg dates back to 1723 when Maximilian Ulrich von Kaunitz and his wife, Maria Ernestine Francisca von Rietberg, erected a statue in his honor at the junction of Schlossallee and the historical road to Paderborn. Their son, Wenzel Anton Fürst von Kaunitz-Rietberg, who served as an Austrian State Chancellor, decided to build a chapel near this statue between 1747 and 1753.
The architectural design of the chapel has long been a subject of intrigue. Initially, it was thought to be the work of the renowned Westphalian Baroque architect Johann Conrad Schlaun, due to its stylistic similarities with the Clemenskirche in Münster. However, further research has attributed the design to a Moravian architect from Brünn, likely Mauritz Grimm, with the construction carried out by Valentin Springer from Tyrol.
The St. Johannes Nepomuk Kapelle is a splendid example of late Baroque architecture, characterized by its dynamic and fluid forms. The chapel's layout consists of an oval central space connected to a transverse oval chancel, which is rectangular on the outside. An adjoining square sacristy with a segmental apse completes the structure. The exterior is adorned with alternating concave and convex sections, creating a striking sense of plasticity.
The façade of the chapel is particularly noteworthy. The curved section with the portal is crowned by a segmental pediment, as are the right-angled transverse axes and the rear view of the chancel. The main portal is topped with the Kaunitz-Rietberg coat of arms, cast in lead, adding a touch of grandeur to the entrance. The chapel's roof is designed in a domed style, enhancing its baroque elegance.
Scavenger hunts in Rietberg
Discover Rietberg with the digital Scavenger Hunt from myCityHunt! Solve puzzles, master team tasks and explore Rietberg with your team!
Stepping inside the St. Johannes Nepomuk Kapelle, visitors are greeted by a lively interplay of curved wall sections, framed by marbleized pilasters and a continuous entablature. The walls and the vaulted ceiling are adorned with intricate Rocaille stucco work, featuring representations of the theological virtues of Faith, Love, and Hope in bas-relief above the portals.
The centerpiece of the interior is the magnificent altar, flanked by pairs of columns. Atop the altar rests a statue of the reclining saint, crafted by the sculptor Joseph Guidobald Licht from nearby Wiedenbrück. Above the altar, in the broken pediment, is a depiction of the saint's apotheosis, symbolizing his ascent to sainthood. Two crossed water lily stems, referencing both the Kaunitz family crest and the martyrdom of St. John of Nepomuk by drowning in the Vltava River in 1393, complete the altar's design.
In 1751, a processional way was established, connecting the chapel to the princely Schloss Rietberg. This path was adorned with seven devotional columns, each depicting scenes from the life and martyrdom of St. John of Nepomuk. At the beginning of this processional way stands a statue of the Virgin Mary, created in 1880 by the Münster sculptor Heinrich Fleige, further enriching the spiritual ambiance of the site.
For visitors to Rietberg, a visit to the St. Johannes Nepomuk Kapelle is a journey into the past, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic heritage of the region. The chapel's serene setting amidst lush greenery provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, the chapel promises an enriching experience.
As you explore the chapel and its surroundings, take a moment to reflect on the enduring legacy of the Kaunitz family and their devotion to St. John of Nepomuk. The chapel stands as a testament to their faith and artistic vision, inviting all who visit to appreciate the beauty and serenity of this remarkable Baroque masterpiece.
In conclusion, the St. Johannes Nepomuk Kapelle in Rietberg is not just a historical monument; it is a symbol of the region's rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Its walls echo the stories of devotion and artistry that have shaped this beautiful corner of North Rhine-Westphalia, making it an unmissable destination for anyone visiting the area.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 3 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.