Introduction to the Restoration Project
The interior of the Court Chapel in the Würzburg Residence has been rightly described as a ‘magnificent, inexhaustible visual experience’ and as a ‘classic example of the proverbial Baroque intoxication of the senses in which energy and movement, colour and light, shining marble and glittering gold harmonize extravagantly and communicate an ideal image of the greatest princely splendour’ (Wilfried Hansmann, Balthasar Neumann [Cologne, 1999]).
However, when one takes a closer look at this magnificence in the area above the main cornice, blistering layers and salt efflorescence swelling out of cracks become noticeable, particularly on the gilded stucco work and marbling. The substance has loosened so much in many places that pieces of stucco have already fallen off and white, salt-covered gaps are showing an alarming state of damage. There is an urgent need for action here. In addition, some 50 years have passed since the last restoration, during which dust deposition and other forms of contamination have taken place (due to ecclesiastic use of the building and as a result of the numerous visitors to the Residence).
Following the restoration measures carried out in the White Hall, the staircase, and the Kaisersaal (Imperial Hall), the restoration of the Court Chapel will represent a further contribution to the preservation and maintenance of the Würzburg Residence as a world cultural heritage site. Not only the interior, with its priceless decorations (one need only mention the large Tiepolo paintings on the side altars), but also the windows, floors and adjoining rooms, as well as the small bell tower in the transverse block on the South Court and the roof, will be included in the renovation work.
This web site is mainly devoted to restoration work being carried out on the interior decoration of the chapel, including the paintings in the vaulting and stucco decoration on the upper zones of the walls, as well as the artistic fittings.