Happy TravellerWelcome to Kevelaer, the largest Catholic pilgrimage location in north-western Europe. Located in the district of Kleve, in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, Kevelaer attracts over 1 million pilgrims every year, mostly from Germany and the Netherlands, who come to honor the Virgin Mary. But Kevelaer is not just a religious destination, it also boasts a rich history and charming attractions that make it a must-visit city.
Kevelaer is a center of veneration and pilgrimage to Our Lady, Comforter of the Afflicted (also known as Our Lady of Consolation). According to tradition, a merchant named Hendrik Busman, in the days before Christmas, 1641, three times heard a voice saying ‘Here thou shalt build me a chapel.’ He began to set money aside but feared his wife, Mechel, wouldn’t approve. She, however, had a vision, around Pentecost, in which she saw a little chapel containing a print of Our Lady of Consolation, all bathed in light. The story was confirmed by two passing soldiers, who saw the house light up at night. Days before, two soldiers had tried to sell her two copperplate engravings with the same image on it, but she found it too expensive. Hendrik began building the chapel while Mechel tried to obtain the print. The chapel was consecrated and on 1 June 1642, the Sunday after Assumption of Mary, the print was displayed in it, and the chapel became such a popular destination for pilgrims that a church was built for them between 1643 and 1645. The little chapel was replaced in 1654 with a larger one, the Gnadenkapelle, which still houses the print.
The Gnadenkapelle (Chapel of Mercy) has drawn pilgrims to the Lower Rhine Region from all over the world for more than 360 years. Pope John Paul II visited in 1987. But Kevelaer has more to offer than just religious sites. The city has a charming old town with narrow streets and historic buildings, such as the Town Hall, built in 1641, and the St. Mary’s Church, built in the 15th century. The city also has several museums, including the Museum Kurhaus Kleve, which houses a collection of contemporary art, and the Niederrheinisches Museum für Volkskunde und Kulturgeschichte, which showcases the history and culture of the Lower Rhine Region.
Kevelaer is also a great destination for nature lovers. The city is surrounded by beautiful countryside, with forests, lakes, and rivers. The Niers river, which flows through the city, is a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking. The city also has several parks, such as the Stadtpark, which has a lake and a playground, and the Klostergarten, a beautiful garden next to the Gnadenkapelle.
Kevelaer is twinned with Bury St Edmunds, England, United Kingdom. The city also has several events throughout the year, such as the Kevelaer Christmas Market, which takes place in the old town and features traditional crafts and food, and the Kevelaer Pilgrimage, which takes place on the first weekend of July and attracts thousands of pilgrims.
In conclusion, Kevelaer is a unique and charming city that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a religious pilgrim, a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Kevelaer is a destination that should not be missed.
