Chapel of Mary, Queen of Peace, Laibarös
Chapel of Mary, Queen of Peace, Laibarös
Highlight • Religious Site
Hiking
4.3
(52)
Cycling
4.2
(27)
Mountain biking
4.4
(27)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
Road cycling
5.0
(1)
The Chapel of Maria Friedenskönigin Laibarös, also known as Maria Königin des Friedens (Mary, Queen of Peace), is a distinctive religious building nestled in the village of Laibarös, within the Bamberg district of Upper Franconia, Germany. Standing at an elevation of 482 metres, this historical site serves as a poignant memorial, built as an expression of gratitude by World War II returnees. Its unique unplastered quarry stone masonry and dedication to peace make it a notable landmark in the region.
…This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
August 15, 2017
Hiking
August 8, 2021
Mountain biking

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Nearby routes
Best routes near Chapel of Mary, Queen of Peace, Laibarös

4.6
(16)
81
hikers
11.4km
03:22
310m
310m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

4.6
(19)
70
hikers
12.3km
03:18
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(2)
13
hikers
12.6km
03:38
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 480 m
Weather
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Saturday 6 June
21°C
11°C
18 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h
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The chapel is a key point on the Königsfeld Kapellenweg trails, which offer various routes for hikers. One popular option is the Aufseß Spring – Königsfeld Fortified Church loop from Laibarös. This trail provides a good mix of historical sites and natural beauty, with varying lengths and elevations to suit different fitness levels. Hikers can find detailed route information and maps for these trails to plan their visit effectively.
Yes, the surroundings of Laibarös offer several family-friendly walks. Many trails are relatively gentle, allowing for an enjoyable experience with children. The historical significance of the chapel itself can also be an engaging educational point for families. Look for shorter, well-maintained loops that pass by the chapel for a pleasant outing.
Generally, dogs are welcome on the hiking trails around Laibarös. However, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in nature protection areas or near livestock. Please ensure you clean up after your dog to maintain the cleanliness and natural beauty of the trails for all visitors.
While Laibarös is a small village, public transport options might be limited. It's best to check local bus schedules for connections from larger nearby towns like Königsfeld or Bamberg. Often, the most convenient way to reach the chapel by public transport involves a bus ride to Laibarös, possibly followed by a short walk. Planning your journey in advance is highly recommended.
Laibarös itself is a small, quiet village, so options for cafes, pubs, or extensive accommodation might be limited. For a wider selection, visitors typically look to the larger neighboring towns such as Königsfeld or Scheßlitz, which are a short drive away. These towns offer guesthouses, restaurants, and cafes where you can relax after your walk.
The chapel and its surrounding trails are accessible throughout the year. However, for walking and hiking, the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with blooming flowers or vibrant fall foliage. Summer can be warm, while winter walks can be picturesque, especially after snowfall, but require appropriate gear for potentially icy or muddy conditions.
The chapel itself, being a historical building, might have limited accessibility, potentially involving steps at the entrance. The immediate area around the chapel might be manageable, but many of the surrounding hiking trails are natural paths with uneven terrain, making them challenging for wheelchairs or those with significant mobility impairments. It's advisable to check specific trail conditions if accessibility is a concern.
No, typically no specific permits are required for general hiking on the established trails around Laibarös or to visit the Chapel of Maria Friedenskönigin. The trails are open to the public. However, always respect private property and adhere to any local signage regarding nature protection or restricted areas.
The chapel is notable for its unplastered quarry stone masonry, giving it a rustic and authentic feel. Bricks are used sparingly for the chancel arch and window reveals. It features a slate roof and a distinctive six-meter-high roof turret with a lantern for the bells. The interior includes a flat ceiling in the nave, a gallery, and an octagonal choir, with figure groups that change according to church festivals.
A visit to the chapel itself, including time for quiet reflection and appreciating its historical and architectural details, usually takes about 15-30 minutes. If you combine it with a short stroll in the immediate surroundings, you could easily spend an hour. For longer walks, you'd be embarking on one of the area's hiking trails.
The chapel is situated at an elevation of approximately 482 meters, offering pleasant views of the surrounding Upper Franconian landscape. While there isn't a designated 'viewpoint' platform, many of the hiking trails in the area, particularly those leading to higher ground, will provide panoramic vistas of the rolling hills and forests. The natural setting itself is quite scenic.
The chapel's bell holds a poignant historical significance. To finance its purchase, large areas of the Hohenpölzer Heiligenholz were felled, and the tree bark was processed into tannins and sold. This act reflects the thrift, sacrifice, and ingenuity of the community during the difficult post-war era. The inscription on the bell, "REGINA PACIS ORA PRO NOBIS" (Queen of Peace, pray for us), further underscores its dedication to peace.