Altötting, known as one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Germany, attracts thousands of worshippers each year. However, not everyone is impressed by what they see. The number and size of churches and cathedrals in this small town may seem excessive. Instead of promoting the spirit of religion, the whole place gives the impression that it has lost that spirit in favour of ostentatious wealth and a mania for grandeur..
One of the most important places in Altötting is the Gnadenkapelle (Chapel of Grace), where the famous painting of Our Lady of Altötting, known as the "Black Madonna," is located. Legend has it that in 1489, a three-year-old boy who drowned in the river was brought back to life by his mother, who placed him before the statue of the Madonna. This event attracted many faithful and led to the development of the site as a place of pilgrimage..
The main sacred buildings, although impressive, can overwhelm with their monumentality. Their richly decorated interiors, filled with gilded altars and baroque sculptures, may give the impression that true spirituality has been replaced by materialism. For many visitors, Altötting has transformed into a museum of opulence, where religious minimalism has been supplanted by architectural grandeur..
Is it really necessary? Must external wealth dominate over spiritual modesty? These are questions that may provoke reflection. Ultimately, each person assesses for themselves what impressions Altötting evokes in them – for some it may be a symbol of spiritual power, for others – a manifestation of excessive wealth..
Additionally, our visit coincided with the Feast of Corpus Christi. The town was decorated with cut birch trees and numerous altars..
