Our Lady's Chapel in Westelbeers
History
Notarial documents from 1621 indicate that a small chapel already stood on this site. This wooden chapel was destroyed, and in 1637 a stone chapel was built. This year of construction is inscribed on the rear wall of the chapel. The reason for the construction was the plague epidemic that severely affected the Beerze region at that time.
Our Lady of Scherpenheuvel.
The chapel is dedicated to Our Lady of Scherpenheuvel. From the 17th century onwards, an annual pilgrimage to Scherpenheuvel in Belgium took place from this chapel in Westelbeers. The chapel has been renovated several times and in 1937 was expanded with a turret and a bell. The pilgrimages ceased in 2021.
Stained Glass Windows
On the left is an image of th…
History
Notarial documents from 1621 indicate that a small chapel already stood on this site. This wooden chapel was destroyed, and in 1637 a stone chapel was built. This year of construction is inscribed on the rear wall of the chapel. The reason for the construction was the plague epidemic that severely affected the Beerze region at that time.
Our Lady of Scherpenheuvel.
The chapel is dedicated to Our Lady of Scherpenheuvel. From the 17th century onwards, an annual pilgrimage to Scherpenheuvel in Belgium took place from this chapel in Westelbeers. The chapel has been renovated several times and in 1937 was expanded with a turret and a bell. The pilgrimages ceased in 2021.
Stained Glass Windows
On the left is an image of the apostle James as a pilgrim with a pilgrim's hat, staff, and bag, a reference to the annual pilgrimage. The other window depicts Mary and Child, both wearing crowns. With permission, the artist has depicted the faces of several local residents in the chapel window.