Calvary Cemetery Chapel

This cream brick Romanesque style chapel was designed by architect Erhard Brielmaier and built in 1899. A noted designer of Catholic churches around the country, Brielmaier also designed the famous St. Josaphat on the city’s south side, under construction at the same time. The chapel is located on one of the highest elevations in the city with impressive views of Story Hill, Miller Park and the downtown skyline.

Originally built intended for services, prayers, private contemplation, and as a mausoleum for clergy, only one clergy member was ever buried at the site. The structure has two levels: the upper level features the chapel, with its raised sanctuary and high altar, side altars recessed in twin apses, lofty vaulted ceilings, soaring arches and central dome; the lower level is the bi-level mausoleum containing forty-five crypts. Reposing directly beneath the main altar is the body of Reverend Idziego Tarasiewicza, interred in 1903.

After viewing the chapel’s exterior, visitors may browse the upper chapel and lower mausoleum. Chapel representatives will be available to answer questions. The tour may even include answers as to the remaining mystery within the Chapel’s history: Why was Rev. Tarasiewicz the only clergy buried there? Unused and locked-tight for almost half a century, the chapel, presently being restored by Friends of Calvary Cemetery, offers a rare and unique experience to the visitor.

https://www.friendsofcalvarycemetery.org/