Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows

Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows stands in the municipal cemetery of Český Krumlov, a South Bohemian town best known for its UNESCO-listed historic core. Unlike the castle or the parish church that draw most visitors, this modest brick building serves a quieter, ongoing purpose: it is the town's functioning funeral chapel, still used today for burial services and farewells.

When was the chapel built?

Construction took place in 1900–1901, to a design by the municipal builder Ing. Karel Nowacek. A year later, in 1902, the interior received its main altar, supplied by Ludwig Schönbaur. The building reflects the modest, functional style typical of small-town cemetery architecture from the turn of the 20th century within the Austro-Hungarian monarchy — plain in form but carefully finished for its intended, practical role. Since 2010 the chapel has been listed as a protected cultural monument (kulturní památka) in the Czech heritage register, recognising its historical and architectural value on a regional level.

Where exactly is it located?

The chapel sits within the town cemetery east of Český Krumlov's castle and old town, at approximately 48.815 N, 14.327 E. Like many Central European cemeteries of its era, the burial ground is laid out with pathways radiating from the centrally placed chapel — a common 19th- and early 20th-century arrangement that let funeral rites proceed under cover regardless of weather.

What should visitors know before going?

This is an active chapel, used for funerals and memorial services, so visitors should be respectful, particularly if a ceremony is underway. It is not a staged tourist attraction but a working religious building in daily community use. Still, for anyone interested in the everyday architecture of the region — as opposed to its grand monuments — the chapel offers a useful counterpoint to the castle and St. Vitus Church that dominate most itineraries.

How do you get there?

The cemetery is within walking distance of the historic centre, roughly a ten- to fifteen-minute walk from Náměstí Svornosti, the main square. For travelers who have already covered the castle and old town, it makes a calm, low-traffic stop away from the busiest tourist paths.

Frequently asked questions

When was the Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows built? It was constructed in 1900–1901 to a design by Ing. Karel Nowacek, the town's municipal builder. The main altar followed in 1902, made by Ludwig Schönbaur.

Is the chapel a protected monument? Yes. It has been listed in the Czech register of cultural monuments since 2010.

Can visitors go inside? The chapel remains in active use for funeral services, so access may be limited during ceremonies. The surrounding cemetery grounds are open to visitors.

How far is the chapel from the town centre? It's a walk of about ten to fifteen minutes from the main square, Náměstí Svornosti.