Chapel Maria Magdalena, Emmersdorf

The Marktkapelle Emmersdorf stands above the houses in the valley floor beside the Danube in the market town of Emmersdorf an der Donau. Built on a small rise, it overlooks the river and the surrounding fields. The chapel is dedicated to Saint Mary Magdalene and has been protected as a listed monument for many years. It was founded in 1516 by Paul Frey of Friesing, who often stayed nearby during summer holidays. The building includes a semi-basement that floods when the Danube rises, protecting the chapel above. In 1997 restorers rediscovered the vaulted room with its central column and round arch. The north front has a flight of steps and a loggia-like porch with a richly moulded late-Gothic pointed arch doorway. Above the stairs a fresco of the Virgin and Child from the early 17th century decorates the façade. Inside, the nearly square chapel has a late-Gothic net-ribbed vault on corbels and a projecting organ loft on a sturdy cross-ribbed vault. Painted layers cover the walls, and beside the left side altar a restorer uncovered a knight’s image dated 1537. The high altar holds a painting of the Annunciation by Franz Hölzl from 1896, flanked by statues of Saints Peter and Paul from 1674 by Matthias Schwanthaler’s workshop. A portable organ from the 17th century, once walled up, now stands restored beside the altar.