Wessel Family Mausoleum - A Trace of the Past of the Gdansk Żuławy

On the grounds of the former cemetery in Steblewo, there is a lapidarium, the central point of which is the restored mausoleum of the Wessel family. Built in 1854 at the initiative of Carl Wessel, it is a lasting testament to the history of one of the most well-known families associated with the Gdansk Żuławy. Today, the interior of the chapel serves as an exhibition, presenting photos and memorial plaques.

The lapidarium surrounding the chapel consists of richly decorated stelae and cast iron, albeit damaged, crosses. A special place is occupied by the cross of Eduard Wessel, which contains information about his extraordinary parenthood - he was the father of 21 children. Next to the cross is a memorial plaque of his wife, Aline Wessel, who in turn was the mother of this impressive number of offspring.

The Wessel family played a significant role in the history of the region. One of its most famous members was Max Wessel (1843-1929), who served as a landrat in Sztum, and from 1892 as the police president in Gdansk. During the interwar period, he was involved in social activities and was a co-initiator of the construction of a medical and rehabilitation center for children in Gdansk.

The Wessel family mausoleum, along with the surrounding lapidarium, is not only a testament to family histories, but also an important element of the cultural heritage of the Gdansk Żuławy, reminding us of the former inhabitants of this region.