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Heiligenhäuschen: A Sanctuary in Oberkassel

Discover the oldest building in Düsseldorf-Oberkassel, a serene chapel with a rich history dating back to the 18th century, offering a peaceful escape and a glimpse into the past.

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The Heiligenhäuschen, or 'Little Holy House,' is the oldest surviving structure in Düsseldorf-Oberkassel, dating back to at least 1772. This small, historic chapel offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Originally part of the Schürmannshof estate, it has witnessed centuries of Oberkassel's evolution from rural farmland to an affluent urban district. Damaged by floods in 1784 and restored by the Vossen family, the Heiligenhäuschen stands as a testament to the community's enduring faith and resilience. Its architecture, featuring a round-arched entrance and a gabled roof with a cross, exudes a simple yet profound charm. Inside, a fresco depicts the Virgin Mary with the infant Jesus, creating a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. Surrounded by a metal fence and slightly below street level due to land elevation over time, the Heiligenhäuschen provides a tangible link to Oberkassel's past, inviting visitors to pause and appreciate its historical and spiritual significance. The monument is a reminder of the area's rich cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Heiligenhäuschen (Düsseldorf-Oberkassel)

  • Am Heiligenhäuschen 1-9, Düsseldorf, District 4, 40545, DE

Local tips

  • Take a moment for quiet reflection inside the chapel, appreciating the historical and spiritual ambiance.
  • Visit during the day to fully appreciate the fresco and the chapel's architectural details.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through Oberkassel to explore the neighborhood's charming streets and Art Nouveau architecture.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Düsseldorf city center, take the U-Bahn lines U75, U76 or U77 to the 'Barbarossaplatz' station in Oberkassel. From there, walk approximately 5 minutes along the street 'Am Heiligenhäuschen' to reach the chapel. A single ticket for the U-Bahn costs approximately €3.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Oberkassel, the Heiligenhäuschen is easily accessible on foot. From the Belsenplatz, walk along Luegallee, then turn onto Am Heiligenhäuschen. The chapel will be on your right after a few blocks.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-sharing service from Düsseldorf city center to the Heiligenhäuschen will cost approximately €12-€15 and take around 10 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Driving

    If driving, parking is available in the surrounding streets, but can be limited. Consider using the Tiefgarage am Barbarossaplatz (Luegallee 69) for more reliable parking. Parking fees at the garage are approximately €2.50 per hour. Alternatively, ParkingScout24 offers parking spaces on Luegallee 52 for €5 for the first 45 minutes.

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Discover more about Heiligenhäuschen (Düsseldorf-Oberkassel)

Nestled in the heart of Düsseldorf-Oberkassel, the Heiligenhäuschen, meaning 'Little Holy House,' stands as a poignant reminder of the district's rich history and enduring spirit. This small, unassuming chapel, the oldest surviving building in Oberkassel, offers a tranquil oasis amidst the urban landscape. The Heiligenhäuschen's origins are shrouded in mystery, with its existence first documented on a map from 1772. It was situated near the Schürmannshof, later known as 'Vossen links,' a farmstead-turned-inn that played a significant role in the area's social life. The Vossen family, who owned the estate, were instrumental in the chapel's preservation. In 1784, a devastating flood swept through the region, causing extensive damage to the Heiligenhäuschen. Johann Vossen, along with the support of local villagers, undertook the task of rebuilding the chapel, ensuring its survival for future generations. The reconstruction efforts are still visible today in the slightly angled brickwork above the entrance, a subtle reminder of the flood's impact. Over the centuries, Oberkassel transformed from a rural farming community into a prosperous urban district. As the surrounding land was developed, the Heiligenhäuschen found itself increasingly enveloped by modern buildings. To protect it from the rising ground level due to flood protection measures, a metal fence was erected, and steps were added to descend to the chapel's entrance, creating a sense of separation from the contemporary world. In 1934, the city of Düsseldorf carried out a restoration of the Heiligenhäuschen, recognizing its historical and cultural importance. In 1979, a bronze plaque was added, commemorating the chapel's history and the Vossen family's contributions. The plaque was donated by Carl Vossen, a local poet, in memory of his ancestors. The Heiligenhäuschen's architecture is simple yet evocative. The structure features a round-arched entrance, flanked by two small, arched windows that allow natural light to filter into the interior. Above the entrance, a niche houses a cross, a symbol of faith and devotion. The gabled roof, topped with another cross, completes the chapel's modest design. Inside the Heiligenhäuschen, visitors are greeted by a serene atmosphere. A fresco, donated by the Sistermanns family, depicts the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus, accompanied by angels. Below the altar table, a stone figure of 'Christ in the Tomb' rests on a natural rock. Several other religious figures, donated by local families and the Oberkassel heritage association, add to the chapel's spiritual ambiance. The Heiligenhäuschen stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith, community, and historical preservation. It offers a glimpse into Oberkassel's past, reminding visitors of the area's humble beginnings and the generations who have shaped its identity. The chapel's tranquil atmosphere provides a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life, inviting contemplation and reflection. Visiting the Heiligenhäuschen is a journey through time, a chance to connect with the past and appreciate the values that have sustained the Oberkassel community for centuries. It is a place where history, faith, and art converge, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. The monument serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and honoring the legacies of those who came before us. Today, the St. Sebastianus Schützenverein Düsseldorf-Oberkassel maintains the chapel, ensuring its continued preservation for future generations. The Heiligenhäuschen remains a beloved landmark, a symbol of Oberkassel's identity and a testament to the enduring power of faith and community.

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