Chapel of St. John

Description

Look, I get excited every time I talk about the Chapel of St. John because it’s one of those hidden treasures that genuinely moves you. The moment you step inside, there’s this incredible sense of peace that washes over you – I felt it myself the first time I visited. The medieval architecture here is simply stunning, with those soaring stone walls that seem to reach right up to heaven. And y’know what? The light streaming through those gorgeous stained glass windows creates the most magical patterns on the floor throughout the day.

Key Features

• The original 14th-century stone altar remains perfectly preserved – it’s mind-blowing to think how many prayers have been said here over the centuries
• Hand-carved wooden pews that show incredible craftsmanship (I spent a good hour just admiring the details on my last visit)
• A remarkable collection of medieval stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes
• Acoustics that’ll give you goosebumps – seriously, even a whisper carries beautifully
• Ancient stone crypts beneath the chapel floor
• Traditional Gothic arched ceiling with original timber beams
• A peaceful courtyard garden perfect for quiet reflection
• Historical artifacts and religious relics on display

Best Time to Visit

From my experience, early mornings are pure magic here – especially during summer when the rising sun hits those stained glass windows just right. The chapel looks different in every season though! Spring brings gorgeous natural light and fewer crowds, while winter creates this incredibly cozy, contemplative atmosphere. I’d say aim for weekday mornings if you want that serene experience. But honestly? The most breathtaking time is during evening services when candlelight flickers against the ancient stones.

How to Get There

Getting to the Chapel of St. John isn’t complicated, but it does require a bit of planning. The nearest bus stop is about a 10-minute walk away – trust me, the short walk through the historic district is part of the experience! If you’re driving, there’s a small parking area nearby, but it fills up quick on weekends. And here’s a tip from someone who learned the hard way: don’t rely entirely on GPS, as it sometimes gets confused in the narrow medieval streets. Look for the spire – it’s your best landmark!

Tips for Visiting

Alright, let me share some real talk from my multiple visits. First off, remember this is an active place of worship – I always make sure to dress respectfully. Bring a light jacket even in summer ’cause those stone walls keep things pretty cool inside. Photography is allowed, but no flash please – it disturbs both the atmosphere and other visitors.

The acoustic properties are incredible, so take a moment to find a quiet corner and just listen. Sometimes, if you’re lucky (like I was last month), you might catch the choir practicing. Oh, and don’t miss the guest book near the entrance – some of the entries are really moving.

If you’re interested in the history, try timing your visit when the volunteer guides are around – usually mid-morning on weekdays. These folks know their stuff and love sharing stories about the chapel’s past. Last but not least, the garden is a perfect spot for a quiet moment of reflection, and spring brings the most beautiful flowers I’ve ever seen in a church garden.

Trust me on this one – take your time here. This isn’t a place to rush through. Give yourself at least an hour to really soak in the atmosphere and appreciate all the little details that make this chapel so special. I’ve been here dozens of times and still notice something new with each visit!

Location

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