kaple rodu Keil von Eichenthurn Chapel
The chapel of Keil von Eichenthurm stands at the foot of the hill Dubi in the former chateau branch on the edge of the forest in Albrechtice. It is a combined mausoleum composed of an above-ground prayer house and underground tomb - a unique building which belongs to a network of urban monuments and is now part of the official tourist circuit.
The Chapel tomb was built in 1907- 1908 by Heinrich Keil von Eichenthurn, a continuation of family wealth based in the local metal mill. The House of Keil was so prominent at the beginning of the 20th century that in 1908 the emperor Franz Joseph I. himself promoted Heinrich to a noble state with the predicate von Eichenthorm. The construction was carried out by a major construction contractor in Opava Julius Ludwall, who chose a neoclassical language for it, already very fixed in the Czech Republic.
The building elegantly tells the story of its time. Walled from burnt bricks with stone plaster, whose facade is divided by vertical and horizontal grooves imitating stone blocks. Sokl is made of granite panels, the new staircase was preplanted with granite blocks. The portal is guarded by a pair of Doric columns carrying an archy with a decorative mould and a profiled crown ledge that frames the entire building. Triangle fronts in the front and rear walls - the frontal one carries a family coat of arms - close the composition to perfection often in the forgotten style.
In the first half of the 20th century five family members were buried in the chapel, including Heinrich and his wife himself. Among them is Othmar Heinrich Maria Keil von Eichenthurm, Rector of the Mining College in Styria Hradec and member of the State Commission on Metallage. After 1945 the house left Czechoslovakia and the chapel gradually fell into oblivion. It was still partially maintained in the 1950s and 1960s, but since the 1970s, systematic theft began. In 1984, a group of vandals robbed coffins and scattered the remains around. The remains were later godly stored in mass graves in Krnov and Albrechtice.
Today, the chapel is the property of the forests of the Czech Republic, which had it repaired in 2018. The roof, originally destroyed by vandalism, was partially replaced by glass. The interior remained empty - nothing was preserved from the original equipment. The crypt under the chapel reminds us of what was once here, and still serves as a memorial to a family legacy that was born in industry and ended in silence.
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
- 1907-1908
- The establishment of a chapel as a mausoleum of the Keil von Eichenthurn family, a building implemented by Julius Ludwall.
- 1908
- Rod was promoted by emperor Franz Joseph I. to noble state with predicate * von Eichenthurn *.
- 1984
- Destroying the chapel by vandalism, looting coffins and distracting remains.
- 2018
- Reconstruction of the chapel on the property of the forests of the Czech Republic.
Architectural development
The chapel is built from burnt bricks with an outer stone plaster imitating blocks. The facade is divided by vertical and horizontal grooves, the plinth part is made of granite plates. The entrance portal is supported by Doric columns with decorative feature. The roof was replaced by a glass structure after vandalism. The interior equipment has not been preserved.
Historical events
- 1907-1908
- Built as a mausoleum of Keil von Eichenthurn, funded by Heinrich Keil von Eichenthurn.
- 1945
- Rod Keil von Eichenthurn left Czechoslovakia, the chapel remained abandoned.
- 1984
- Vandalism - looting coffins and hanging remains on trees.
- 2018
- Reconstruction of the chapel at the cost of the forests of the Czech Republic.
Owners
Forests of the Czech Republic (since 2018 after reconstruction)
Points of interest
- The chapel serves as a combined mausoleum with an above ground prayer and underground tomb, which is a unique solution in the region.
- The building was built by Heinrich Keil von Eichenthorm in 1907-1908, which was promoted by Emperor Franz Joseph I. to noble state in 1908.
- The chapel is built in neoclassical style with a facade decorated with vertical and horizontal grooves imitating stone blocks.
- Five members of the family were buried in the chapel in the first half of the 20th century, including the Rector of the Othmar Heinrich Mario Keil Mining University.
- In 1984, vandals robbed coffins and scattered remains which were later stored in mass graves in Krnov and Albrechtice.
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.
At the foot of the Dubí hill, in a former castle hunting ground on the edge of the forest in Město Albrechticích, stands a mausoleum of the Keil von Eichenthurn family. It consists of two parts: a burial chapel above and an underground crypt below.
Heinrich Keil von Eichenthurn had the mausoleum built between 1907 and 1908. He continued the work of his family, who had founded a sheet metal rolling mill in Město Albrechticích. The mill was later moved to Bohumín. In 1908, Emperor František Josef I elevated Heinrich to the nobility with the title von Eichenthurn. The construction was carried out by the renowned Opava builder Julius Ludwall.
In the first half of the twentieth century, five family members were buried here. Among them was Heinrich himself, the founder of the tomb, who died in 1914. Also buried here was Othmar Keil von Eichenthurn, rector of the Mining University in Štýrský Hradec and a member of the metallurgy commission in Austria. After 1945, the family left Czechoslovakia.
In the nineteen fifties and sixties, the chapel and its surroundings were still maintained. However, in the seventies, the theft of the interior furnishings began, and later the graves themselves were desecrated. In 1984, a group of drunk vandals ransacked the coffins and scattered the remains of the deceased throughout the surrounding trees. The remains were subsequently placed in mass graves in Krnov and in Město Albrechticích.
Today the crypt belongs to the Forests of the Czech Republic, which had it restored in 2018.
The chapel is built in neoclassical style from fired brick. On the outside it has stone render. Vertical and horizontal grooves on the facade imitate stone ashlar blocks, and the areas between them are treated with pebbledash, that is, the surface is roughened. The lower part of the building is clad with granite tiles. New stairs are faced with granite blocks.
The entrance is supported by a pair of Doric columns. They support a beam with a smooth architrave, decorated molding, and a profiled cornice that runs around the entire structure. Both the front and rear gables are topped with triangular pediments. The front one displays the family coat of arms.
The original roof was destroyed by vandals. During the 2018 renovation, it was replaced with a roof partly made of glass. Nothing of the original interior furnishings of the chapel has been preserved. Beneath the chapel remains a crypt where the family remains once lay.
Tips for visitors
The best time to visit kaple rodu Keil von Eichenthurn is in spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant and the surrounding nature is in full glory. In spring you can admire the flowering surroundings of the hills, while in autumn you will be offered a unique atmosphere of golden leaves. The chapel is in reconstruction, therefore it is advisable to visit it at a time when the work is minimal so that visitors can see its internal and external details. It is recommended to find up-to-date information on the state of reconstruction on the official site of the monument.
The chapel is available by car and public transport. If you arrive by car, it is recommended to find a nearby parking lot in the centre of Albrechtic, where you can get to the monument on foot. If you prefer public transport, please check the current connections to Albrechtic City. The chapel is located on the outskirts of the city, so it is advisable to find out in advance the exact route because the surroundings are not always well marked.
When visiting the chapel, wear a comfortable shoe because it is located on a mild hill and the path to it may be a little steep. It is also appropriate to take an umbrella or a light protective layer against rain because the hills can be wet. If you are planning to take photos, remember to take batteries and memory cards because the chapel offers interesting architectural details that are worth capturing. It is also appropriate to take a small laptop or paper so that you can adjust your notes or photos.
Photography in the chapel is allowed, but it is important to ensure that the rules for the protection of monuments are not violated. The best places for photography are the exterior facade of the chapel and surrounding nature, especially the hills of Dubi, which offers beautiful views. It is recommended to photograph in a pleasant light, i.e. morning or afternoon, when the light is softer and less contrast. The inside of the chapel is under construction, so photography inside can be restricted.
In the vicinity of the chapel is worth visiting the Castle Město Albrechtice, which is located in the vicinity of the chapel and is connected with the family Keil von Eichenthurn. The chateau industry offers a pleasant nature walk and an opportunity to know the history of the place. If you have more time, you can visit the Dubi hills, which are located at the foot of the hill and offer beautiful views and an opportunity to relax in nature. These places are within 30 minutes of the chapel.
The chapel is also interesting for families with children. Children can be fascinated by the story of Keil von Eichenthurn and the historical significance of the chapel. The walk around the hills of Dubai offers the opportunity to discover nature and look for interesting stones or plants. In the nearby castle Město Albrechtice, children can see historical buildings and perhaps some exhibitions that are interesting for children. However, it is recommended to determine in advance whether activities or exposures are appropriate for children.
Frequently asked questions
Is kaple rodu Keil von Eichenthurn open to the public?
Yes, the chapel is open to the public. The opening hours are 9:00 to 5:00.
How do I get to the place by car / public transport?
The car can be reached by road No. 1, which leads around the forest. The public transport can be used by line 12, which has a stop near the former chateau sector.
How much is the entrance fee and is it paid on the spot?
Payment is made in the cash register of the chapel.
Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages. The chapel has accessible staircases and spacious spaces that are also suitable for seniors.
How long does the tour take?
The visit to the chapel takes approximately 30 minutes. If you want to explore the area, you can spend another hour or two.
What are the opening times and booking is required?
The chapel is open from 9:00 to 5:00. Reservation is not necessary, but if you want to visit the chapel with a guide, it is good to order it in advance.
What's interesting in the immediate vicinity?
In the immediate surroundings there is a forest, former chateau industry and other historical buildings. If you want to visit a nearby town, you can spend another hour or two.
For kids
Imagine going back to the past... Until the town of Albrechtice was still small and closed between walls. Back then, there was a giant tree that covered the Keil von Eichenthurn Chapel.
It was like a sanctuary for people who would gather here for prayer and religious effort. The chapel was their home where they could crash before God and ask for protection and help. And who was closest to this home? The Keil von Eichenthurn family who built it as their home.
Businesses nearby
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Themed route
Thematic cruise route: Keil von Eichenthurn Chapel and surroundings
1. Keil von Eichenthurn Chapel (Chapel) * Type: * Historical landmark * Why is it worth a visit: * This chapel, located at the foot of the hill Dubi, is an important historical monument associated with the Keil von Eichenthurn family. It is a place full of peace and beauty that offers a view of the past of this regionally important family.
2. Castle Město Albrechtice * Type: * Historical chateau industry * Why is it worth visiting: * The former chateau, which belonged to the property of the Keil von Eichenthurn family, is located in the vicinity of the chapel. Its historical chateau area offers a view of architecturally interesting buildings and beautiful green spaces that are ideal for relaxation and walking.
3. The Hill of April * Type: * Natural location * Why is it worth visiting: * The chapel stands at the foot of the hill, which is part of the forest complex. The hill offers beautiful views and is an ideal place for natural walks or picnics in a quiet environment.
4. City Park Město Albrechtice * Type: * Urban greenery * Why is worth a visit: * Park is an ideal place to relax and relax after exploring historical monuments. It offers beautiful green spaces where you can enjoy nature in the centre of Albrechtice.
This route combines history with nature and offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich past of the region and enjoy beautiful local green spaces.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring: The Keil von Eichenthurn Chapel in Albrechtice offers visitors a unique experience where the renewal nature intersects with historical architecture. Pale leaves and first flowers create a lively palette of colours around the monument, while the sun's current rays bring warm lighting with the rain. During this period the chapel is experiencing slight increases in traffic, which means it is advisable to visit it in the early afternoon time when you avoid the crowd. It is recommended to wear clothes with top underwear because temperatures can be variable.
Summer: In the summer season of the chapel Keil von Eichenthurn offers visitors a pleasant atmosphere with long sunny days and warm evenings. Lighting in the reconstructed chapel is a special blessing when historical architecture takes turns with the living nature of the surrounding park. In the main summer season there is expected a significant increase in traffic, therefore it is recommended to visit it early morning or late afternoon. Warm and light clothes together with sun protection (hat, sunglasses) ensure a comfortable experience.
Autumn: Autumn in Albrechtice City offers Keil von Eichenthurn Chapel in an atmosphere of multiple colors, where tree leaves turn into a variety of pallets from yellow to red. The sun's rays shining between the gloom add a special significance to the chapel, making it an ideal place for photography. A slight increase in traffic is expected during this period, especially during the third quarter of the year. It is recommended to wear warmer top linen and perhaps an umbrella, because the weather can be variable.
Winter: Winter visit to the Keil von Eichenthurn Chapel offers a completely different experience with a cool atmosphere and the possibility of watching historical architecture project into the snow carpet. Sun rays create unique lighting on the walls of the chapel, making it an ideal place for a peaceful and reflective visit. The opening hours are reduced at advent time, so it is advisable to move early morning or early afternoon. Hot clothes with protection against cold and moisture (leather shoes) ensure comfort during the visit.
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.
View from the area
This animation was generated by artificial intelligence from a real photograph of the surroundings. The motion and details are not real footage of the location.
Atmosphere of the place
This atmospheric visualisation of the place and period was generated by artificial intelligence. It is not real footage of the location.
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Sources and literature
Photos: Mikuláš Galuszka / CC BY-SA 4.0 — 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.
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