Michaelskapelle, Gothic cemetery chapel in Oppenheim, Germany
Michaelskapelle stands behind the Church of St Katharin as a two-story structure with a large underground vault beneath its floor. The crypt houses human remains stored during the medieval period.
The building was constructed in the early 11th century and began serving as an ossuary from the 15th century onward. This practice of storing remains continued for several hundred years.
This chapel is dedicated to Archangel Michael and its position behind the main church shows its role as a burial place for the community. The dedication reflects the spiritual importance it held in medieval religious life.
Visitors can view the remains through a metal grate and observe what is visible from ground level. To explore deeper areas and learn more details, joining a guided tour is recommended.
The crypt holds an unusual gold-plated skull that originated from a television filming inside the chapel. This modern addition creates an unexpected contrast within the ancient space.
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