Kaple Navštívení Panny Marie se studánkou Chapel
The Chapel of Visitation of the Virgin Mary in Josefov Dole, part of the village Karlov, has deep roots in local legends and folk godliness. Before the chapel was built, there was only a well in this place with associated primitive tub baths. According to the legend that local people used to feed themselves from generation to generation, the farmer at the well dug a holy picture. When his wife became ill, he advised her to take a bath in the well. A woman did so and miraculously recovered. This event transformed a modest spring into a place of pious pilgrimage, which during Marian holidays visited thousands of believers from the surrounding area.
The growth of interest in the chapel led in 1762 to the construction of the first wooden building. The believers carried gifts and money to her, and the reputation says that even a short time had been considered to build a church. The fundamental change was the reconstruction of the stone building at the request of Count František Antonín Desfour in 1800. The new chapel was festively consecrated on 27 June 1803. For the next 60 years, it served the faithful in their original form, until in 1865, its reconstruction took place in the form in which we see it today. Since then, interest in the spring and chapel has gradually fallen.
It is an architectural Baroque building made up of a walled building with a wider, almost square main part. It has a slightly convex end closed by a triangular shield. The roof is saddled and covered with bags. The characteristic element of the roof is the sandtree with a headliner.
The chapel was declared a cultural monument on September 23, 1971. In the following decades it gradually declined until its complex restaurant took place between 2009 and 2011. Today, the chapel is a reminder of the deep tradition of Marian piety associated with the local legend that brings believers to its source for centuries.
Then and now
Drag the slider to compare how the landmark may have looked when it was built with the view today.
The historical appearance on the left is an AI-generated visualisation and serves as inspiration only.
Historical milestones
- before 1762
- The emergence of a well with a reputation for miraculous healing and the emergence of primitive bath baths.
- 1762
- The position of a wooden chapel near the well.
- 1800
- Reconstruction of the chapel by Count František Antonín Desfours to stone building.
- 1865
- Conversion of the chapel into the present Baroque form.
- 1971
- Declaration of the chapel for a cultural monument.
- 2009-2011
- The last major reconstruction of the chapel.
Architectural development
The first wooden chapel was built in 1762. In 1800, Count František Antonín Desfour had the chapel rebuilt into a stone, which was consecrated in 1803. In 1865 the chapel went through another reconstruction to its present form. The last major reconstruction took place in 2009-2011.
Historical events
The original well with a reputation for healing (before 1762); construction of wooden chapel in 1762; reconstruction into a stone chapel by Count František Antonín Desfours in 1800 and consecration in 1803; a declaration for the cultural monument of 1971.
Points of interest
- The hall at the chapel became a place of pilgrimage after the miraculously healed woman who bathed in it after her husband's advice.
The first wooden chapel was built in 1762 thanks to the gifts and money of the believers.
- The chapel was converted into a stone building at the request of Count František Antonín Desfour in 1800 and consecrated on 27 June 1803.
- In 1865 the chapel went through another reconstruction, after which it acquired today's form.
- The chapel was declared a cultural monument on September 23, 1971.
Guide
This guide is narrated by a synthetic voice generated by artificial intelligence.
Show guide text
This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
The Chapel of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary is a Baroque sacred structure in Karlov, which is part of Josefův Důl. Its story begins with a spring.
Originally, there was no chapel at this location. There was only a spring and supposedly also simple bathing facilities. A legend is told about it. A farmer allegedly dug out a holy image at the spring. After some time his wife fell ill and he advised her to bathe in the spring. She did so and was healed. The spring then became a pilgrimage site and on Marian feast days thousands of people came to it.
In 1762 a wooden chapel was built there. Pilgrims brought gifts and money to it and shortly there was even consideration of building a church. In 1800 Count František Antonín Desfours had the chapel rebuilt as a stone structure. It was consecrated on June 27, 1803. It acquired its current form through renovation in 1865. From that time on, interest in the spring and the chapel gradually declined.
The chapel was declared a cultural monument on September 23, 1971. The last major reconstruction took place between 2009 and 2011.
The chapel is built of brick. Its main part is wider, almost square, with a slightly convex apse and a triangular gable. The hipped roof is covered with tiles. On the roof is a sanctus bell turret with a pyramidal roof.
Tips for visitors
Best visiting time
Chapel is the most beautiful and peaceful in the summer months, especially in June and July, when nature is about to bloom and the well acts as an oasis of peace. It is ideal for lovers of history and pilgrims to visit during Marian holidays, such as the Visitation of the Virgin Mary (25 March) or the Ascension of the Virgin Mary (15 August), where worship and pilgrimage are held. The morning clock is suitable for shooting when the light is soft and the place is less visited.
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What to take with you
When visiting the chapel and wells, bring comfortable shoes because the path to the monument leads mainly to forest and field paths. It is also appropriate to take a small umbrella or a light umbrella jacket as the weather can be variable in the mountains. It is useful for pilgrims and visitors to carry a prayer book or cross if they wish to stay at the well for a while in prayer. Do not forget the water supply, because it is not always easy to access public resources in the vicinity.
Photography - best places and light
The most beautiful photos of the chapel can be taken from around the well, where its baroque architecture and natural surroundings are well captured. The best light is morning or evening, when the sun shines from an angle and creates interesting shadows. It is also interesting for photographers to capture the well and its surroundings, especially when nature is blooming. The interior of the chapel is suitable to be photographed during services, when lighting is favourable and there is a quieter atmosphere.
What to visit in the area (within 30 minutes drive)
Near the chapel there is a Baroque chateau in the village Karlov, which is worth visiting for its historical value and architecture. This chateau is one of the few sacral and cultural monuments in the area and offers the opportunity to learn the history of the region. For natural enthusiasts it is advisable to visit the surrounding forest areas of the Jizera Mountains, which are ideal for hiking, cycling or just walking in nature. In the village Karlov there are also other historical houses and monuments that can be interesting for lovers of architecture.
Tips for families with children
Chapel and well offer families with children an opportunity to relax and explore nature. Children can look at the miraculous well and hear stories of its significance. It is possible to find small paths around the chapel, which can be safely walked and discovered natural beauty. It is also interesting for children to visit the chateau in Karlov, where there are often cultural events or exhibitions that can be interesting for children. Parents can enjoy peace and children can tell stories about the history of the place.
Frequently asked questions
Can the monument be visited?
Religious buildings are usually open mainly during services; at other times a visit is normally arranged with the parish or the operator. We have not verified specific times.
Where is the monument?
Location: Karlov, Liberecký kraj. The map on this page shows the exact spot.
Why is the monument protected?
It is listed in the Central List of Cultural Monuments of the Czech Republic as a cultural monument (register no. 46462/5-4794).
For kids
Imagine going back to the past, when the Chapel of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary with the well was new and full of life. This was a small town of Joseph's Mine, where people lived in harmony with nature. The chapel was the center of the village where weddings, christening and other celebrated events took place.
It was like a game where heroes went on adventures. People from the surrounding villages came to Josefa Dole and sang songs and dances in front of the chapel. The study was a sanctuary for animals and people gathered here to talk about their past and today events.
Businesses nearby
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Nearby
There is a natural landscape of the Jizera Mountains and a forested area. In the village Karlov and its surroundings there are other historical buildings such as the Baroque chateau in Karlov, but there are no other significant sacral monuments right near the chapel.
Accommodation nearby
Trips and activities nearby
Guided tours, tickets and activities nearby from GetYourGuide
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Thematic cruise route from Karlova
1.Kaple Navštívení Panny Marie se studánkou (chapel) Type: Sacral monument Why is it worth a visit: This picturesque chapel is not only the spiritual centre of the village Karlov, but also hosts a historical well. It is a place of peace and shelter for all who wish to record an impressive view of the Jizera Mountains.
2. Baroque Chateau in Karlov Type: Historical construction Why is it worth a visit: This Baroque chateau is an architectural pearl that represents the rich history and culture of the village. Its beautiful yards and parks offer an ideal environment for relaxation and sightseeing.
3. Wooden areas around Karlova Type: Natural landscape Why is it worth a visit: These forests are part of the natural landscape of the Jizera Mountains, offering beautiful walks and the opportunity to observe local flora and fauna. They are an ideal place for nature lovers looking for peace and quiet.
Route order: Start your trip at Kaple Navštívení Panny Marie se studánkou where you can enjoy a quiet moment. Then proceed to the historical heart of the village where the Baroque Chateau is located in Karlov. After a tour of the chateau, take a walk around the forest areas of Karlova and enjoy the natural beauty of the Jizera Mountains.
This route offers a combination of spiritual peace, historical interest and natural views, making it an ideal choice for a day trip.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring: Kaple Navštívení Panny Marie se studánkou offers wonderful experiences during the spring season, when nature begins to bloom and the surrounding forests turn into living shades. The sun illuminates the chapel with its warm light, creating an attractive atmosphere for visitors. This period is ideal for walking along the surrounding paths and enjoying the peace of nature. Visitors are advised to wear clothes suitable for mild temperatures because they can be cold in the morning and the temperature increases by day. The best time to visit is in the afternoon when the sun lights up the chapel and surroundings. Despite the arrival of tourists, you will meet with moderate news during this period.
Summer: The summer Chapel of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary offers full color and life, when the surrounding landscape is green and flowering. The sunny days bring a warm atmosphere that creates ideal conditions for visiting a chapel with a well. It is recommended to visit in the morning or in the evening to avoid the midday sun and overcrowding. It is advisable to be dressed in light and light clothing that protects against the sun, and not miss the skin protection. Summer is a time when the number of visitors increases, so it is good to take advantage of the mild local moments.
Autumn: In autumn, the Chapel of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary offers a unique atmosphere where tree leaves turn into a colourful web room. The sunny days are short, but the sun illuminates the chapel with its warm light, which gives a visit to comfort and peace. This period is ideal for relaxing in nature and enjoying a mild climate. It is advisable to be dressed in laminated clothing because temperatures can change quickly. The best time to visit is in the afternoon when the sun lights up the chapel and surroundings.
Winter: In winter, the Chapel of Visiting the Virgin Mary offers a calm atmosphere with cool air and the possibility of enjoying the well in a mild climate. Sundays are short, which means the chapel is lit by light only for a limited period of time during the day. This period is ideal for a quiet visit without large crowds. It is necessary to have warm clothes, including hat and gloves, because outside the chapel can be cold conditions. Winter visit is a suitable afternoon, which allows you to enjoy warm sunlight and a peaceful atmosphere of the chapel.
Visualizations and artistic views
The visualisations are generated by artificial intelligence and serve as inspiration.
Photos from the area
Real photos taken near the monument
Zdroj a licence jsou uvedeny u každého snímku.
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Sources and literature
Photos: Barocco / CC0, rozlišení zvýšeno umělou inteligencí — Wikimedia Commons. The author and licence also appear when you hover over the image.
Faktickým podkladem tohoto textu byl článek na Wikipedii, jehož autory jsou přispěvatelé Wikipedie. Článek je dostupný pod licencí CC BY-SA 4.0.
Location on the map
Příběhy a pověsti
Legendy, pověsti a příběhy spjaté s touto památkou
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