Ditscheid: Chapel History and Landscape Park
Accommodation in Ditscheid
Two different themes stand out for a stay in Ditscheid: the history surrounding St. Apollonia Chapel and Steinbüchel Landscape Park. Other local points of interest include the revival of the Winter Fair and the “XXL Swinging Bench.” When planning your stay, you can distinguish between local history, the park’s various features, and a special moment in spring.
The chapel and local history
A small shrine was first built on the site of today’s St. Apollonia Chapel in 1663. A small chapel followed in 1756; the present-day chapel was built in 1849. These three dates mark a sequence from the first shrine, through the later chapel, to the chapel that stands today. This places Ditscheid’s building history in chronological context without conflating the different stages into a single building.
Another aspect of local community involvement dates to 1994: the chairpersons of the local associations at the time joined with the municipal council under the name “Apollonia Association” to work on improving the appearance of the village. The revival of the “Winter Fair” was a separate initiative. It was revived to raise funds and took place on the feast day of Saint Apollonia, February 9. Thus, alongside the chapel’s history, community involvement and the specific purpose of the fair are also part of the picture.
Discoveries in SteinbĂĽchel Landscape Park
Wooden sculptures were created in SteinbĂĽchel Landscape Park at several events featuring chainsaw carvers. They are spread throughout the park, with some placed in less conspicuous spots. They are not a single, cohesive sculpture group at one location: as you walk around, you can look out for both the works placed in the open and those that are partly hidden.
The old quarry is another focal point in the park. It has been partly cleared and is open to visitors. The park also offers play facilities for children and a Cretan labyrinth made from native red beeches. A barbecue hut is another park feature; it has water, electricity, and toilet facilities. If you plan to use the hut, check its current availability in advance.
Finding your way to the XXL Swinging Bench
The “XXL Swinging Bench” is located near Ditscheid’s sports field and about a ten-minute walk from Steinbüchel Landscape Park. This is an approximate walking time and gives you a sense of the distance between these two points of reference. From the bench, you can enjoy the first rays of spring sunshine in particular. It adds a distinct, explicitly seasonal touch to a visit to the park.
Culture in the wider destination of Mayen-Koblenz
The wider destination of Mayen-Koblenz offers other historical and cultural themes. In Mayen, Genoveva Castle was built in 1280 by Heinrich von Finstingen, Archbishop of Trier; it is one of the city’s landmarks. Sayn Abbey was founded around 1200, and its abbey church was consecrated in 1202. Sayn Ironworks offers a different historical perspective: it is an anchor point on the European Route of Industrial Heritage and the only monument in Rhineland-Palatinate to receive this distinction. Following restoration, its modern exhibitions and multimedia displays invite visitors to explore. These places add to the picture of cultural heritage in Mayen-Koblenz; they are distinct regional themes alongside Ditscheid’s attractions.
Discover more destinations: Vordereifel, Kollig, Nachtsheim, KĂĽrrenberg, Bermel, Gering, Andernach, Kaltenengers
Go to the overview of the wider destination: Mayen-Koblenz.
