Waldkapelle Maria bei der Eiche Aalen, Forest chapel in Ebnat, Germany
Waldkapelle Maria bei der Eiche is a small chapel located about two kilometers southwest of Ebnat in the Scheiterhau forest surrounded by dense woodland. The building is accessible via forest paths and sits in a quiet area sheltered by trees.
The chapel's origins date to 1692 when shepherd children established a devotional site at an oak tree and later placed a sacred image there. The current building was constructed in 1925, replacing earlier structures at this sacred spot.
The chapel draws visitors seeking a connection between nature and faith in a secluded forest setting. People walk through the woods to pause and reflect at this place of devotion.
Wear sturdy footwear as forest paths can be uneven, especially after rain. The best time to visit is on dry days when the trails are easier to walk.
The sacred image housed in the chapel today was installed in 1979, replacing the original image moved to the parish church in 1745. This link between the chapel and the village shows the long-term significance of this place for the community.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.