Sint-Catharinakapel

Sint-Catharinakapel is a church building in Vaals that features Romanesque architecture with solid stone walls, a pointed roof, and a bell tower rising above the village. The structure is characterized by thick masonry and the characteristic simplicity typical of medieval chapels in this region.

The building was constructed around 1200 and underwent significant renovations later, particularly by Georg von Stücker in 1648. The year 1683 is marked on the third roof truss, indicating ongoing maintenance and repairs during that era.

The chapel's interior walls feature murals created by artist Hans Truijen in 1978, introducing a contemporary artistic voice that contrasts with the traditional stone exterior. These works add a modern dimension to the otherwise historical space.

The chapel is accessible to visitors during regular opening hours and offers guided tours. It is advisable to check opening times beforehand, as these can vary depending on the season and special occasions.

During World War II, the chapel tower served as a hiding place for local residents fleeing German occupation. This hidden chapter of the village's past is rarely mentioned but remains part of local memory.