Roman Catholic church and Esterházy Mausoleum in Nagyganna, Ganna, Catholic church and mausoleum in Ganna, Hungary
This parish church features a Greek cross layout with a central dome and a marble altar topped by a Virgin Mary statue. The building combines an upper worship space with a lower burial chamber, creating a distinctive two-level arrangement.
French architect Charles Moreau designed this neo-classical structure between 1808 and 1818, modeling it after the Roman Pantheon. The project emerged as a symbol of the Esterházy family's wealth and influence during that period.
The lower church holds a crypt where members of the Esterházy family lie in bronze and marble sarcophagi. The space reflects how one of Hungary's most powerful families chose to honor their dead and mark their place in society.
The site is open to visitors year-round and is maintained by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Veszprém. Regular services take place here, so it is worth checking visit times beforehand to avoid clashing with religious ceremonies.
When completed, the church dome was the largest dome structure in Hungary and a testament to the architect's technical skill. This architectural achievement made the building a landmark of the region.
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