The chapel was commissioned specifically as a private house of worship for the owners of the nearby Ranuihof farm.
It was built in 1744, replacing a predecessor structure that occupied the site.
The facade frescoes depict scenes from the life of St. John of Nepomuk.
The building is officially known as St.-Johann-Kirche in Ranui.
The Church of St. John in Ranui, Funes, is a small Baroque chapel characterized by its distinct onion-shaped dome and a vibrantly painted facade featuring scenes of the saint's life. Constructed in 1744 by Michael von Jenner, it serves as a private chapel for the adjacent Ranuihof estate. The structure is set against the dramatic backdrop of the Geisler Peaks (Odle Mountains) in the Dolomites. It is a frequent subject for photographers due to the contrast between the modest architecture and the rugged mountain terrain. The chapel sits in a meadow at the foot of the Puez-Geisler Nature Park. Its interior contains a small altar and modest decorative elements typical of 18th-century Alpine rural churches.
The designated public viewing point along the walking path offers the classic framing of the chapel with the Odle peaks directly behind.
Access to the immediate area around the chapel is restricted by a wooden fence to preserve the meadow; use the designated viewing points.
Visit during the shoulder seasons of late spring or autumn to avoid the heaviest peak-summer crowds.
Bring a telephoto lens to compress the scale of the chapel against the massive mountain peaks in the background.
Do not attempt to enter the fenced area surrounding the church, as it is private property and strictly monitored.
The interior is rarely open to the public; views are primarily exterior.
Maintain silence and do not attempt to climb the fence surrounding the chapel grounds.
