Annakapelle: A Gothic Gem in St. Johann im Pongau

Nestled in the heart of St. Johann im Pongau, Austria, the Annakapelle stands as a testament to the town's rich history and architectural evolution. Constructed in 1301, the Annakapelle is the oldest building in St. Johann. Originally built as an ossuary, or Karner, to store unearthed bones, the structure was gradually buried, leading to the addition of an upper level around 1340, which now serves as the main chapel area. The chapel was consecrated in 1520 by Bishop Berthold of Chiemsee. The Annakapelle's architecture reflects its long history. The lower church features early Gothic ribbed vaulting, while the upper church showcases a stunning 16th-century net vault ceiling. Inside, the altar, crafted by Salzburg stonemason Heinrich Mayer, features an Untersberger marble altar plate. Statues of Saint Dominic and Saint Catherine of Siena flank the altar, and a sculpture from around 1530 depicts Emperor Henry and his wife Kunigunde. In 1855, a devastating market fire destroyed the neighboring church, but the Annakapelle survived, becoming the last remnant of the former Gothic church ensemble. Today, the Annakapelle serves as a place of worship for both the Roman Catholic and Protestant communities. From 1995 to 2000, the chapel underwent extensive renovations, including the restoration of the exterior and the lower church, which now hosts exhibitions.