In 1673, “de Kapel van O.L. Vrouw van Loreto onder de Linden” (Our Lady of Loreto Chapel under the Lime Trees) was founded by the Abbey of Thorn (convent). A year later, the chapel was completed and put into use. The exterior of the chapel is clearly visible from the street. The origin of the name “under the lime trees” can be immediately seen, as tall, old lime trees stand like mighty trees protecting the chapel. Near the entrance to the chapel is a peace pole. This is located at Heerbaan-Kapel 4, 6017RB Thorn.
The current chapel consists of two parts, marked by a pair of turrets. The oldest, lowest part dates from 1673. This part of the chapel is a copy of the “Santa Casa” or Holy House of Nazareth, which is built centrally in the basilica in Loreto, Italy. This is where the chapel in Thorn gets its name, Our Lady of Loreto.
Due to an increase in visitors, the chapel was enlarged, which can be seen in the highest part of this special place of worship. The expansion was completed in 1811. Since 1822, the parish of Saint Michael in Thorn has owned the chapel.
