St. Barbara's Chapel, Meran, Gothic chapel in Merano, Italy
St. Barbara's Chapel is a Gothic structure with an unusual octagonal floor plan that sets it apart from other buildings in Merano. Inside are a wooden Gothic altar, two Baroque altars, and a prominent painting of Saint Christopher positioned near the entrance.
Built in 1450 by Hans von Burghausen, the chapel initially served as the town's burial place for the deceased. When the cemetery relocated in 1848, the building adapted to a new purpose while maintaining its spiritual function.
The chapel is named after Saint Barbara, protector of miners and craftspeople who held special meaning in this Alpine region. The religious artwork inside reflects how deeply this saint was venerated by those who lived and worked nearby.
The chapel sits directly behind St. Nicholas' Church in Merano and is easy to reach on foot from the town center. As a religious space, it asks for quiet behavior and respectful conduct from all who enter.
The basement of the chapel was once an ossuary holding human remains before burials moved elsewhere in the town. This hidden underground use is often overlooked by visitors today.
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