Rock Chapel
Be sure to explore the Rock Chapel of Miskolctapolca, consecrated in 1935!
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This unique chapel was created in cave-like spaces carved into tuff. Its main entrance, set into a retaining wall, and its Székely gate are also distinctive.
A bit of history: In 1934, a Franciscan monk, Father Pius Szabó, who was of Transylvanian origin, visited his friend, Rudolf Pataky, a member of the Miskolc municipal council. Rudolf owned two caves carved into tuff rock on the Verebes farm, which were used as sheepfolds. The priest was captivated by the location and the view, and suggested transforming the caves into a small chapel for the visitors of Tapolca. Rudolf Pataky donated 650 square fathoms of land for this purpose. The chapel was severely damaged during the war, its reconstruction was completed in 1965, and it was renovated again in 1995. At that time, a Székely gate was built at the chapel's entrance in memory of Pius Szabó.
The plans for the Rock Chapel were designed by László Menner, an architect from Miskolc. The main entrance was incorporated into a retaining wall 9 metres high and 18 metres wide. The star-vault ceiling was the work of sculptor József Kun, while the sacred painting was created by painter Dezső Meilinger. The statues inside the church were crafted by János Máriahegyi, a sculptor from Budapest. The artificial stone cross standing atop the retaining wall was also made by József Kun, and the bells came from the bell foundry of László Szlezák in Budapest. The ornate gate was the work of locksmith Árpád Süveges.
Be sure to check the opening hours before your visit!
Contact: +36 46/431-215
