A simple yet striking bas-relief greets you. It’s the Chapelle Notre-Dame de Lourdes. This unassuming chapel holds a surprising story.
The Chapelle Notre-Dame de Lourdes isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a testament to faith and resilience. Its history stretches back to the early 20th century. A surge in the population of the Haut Ménilmontant district prompted the building of a church and chapel. This original structure however was later demolished. Safety concerns forced its destruction.
In 1980 a new chapter began. Architect Jean Vidal designed a new church. It was built on the ground floor of a building. It’s at the corner of Rue Saint-Fargeau and Rue Pelleport. The new Chapelle Notre-Dame de Lourdes retained its dedication to Our Lady of Lourdes.
The Chapelle Notre-Dame de Lourdes is wholly dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It commemorates her apparitions of 1858. The modern stained-glass windows on the right-hand nave wall tell a visual story. They depict Bernadette Soubirous’s encounters with Mary. The scenes show requests such as drinking from the spring building a chapel and making processions. During frequent novenas here you can respond to Mary’s call. You can venerate a piece of rock from the Lourdes grotto. You can even drink water brought from Lourdes.
The facade’s stunning stained-glass porch is another highlight. It was created by master glassmaker Eric Bonte. Architect Stephan de Bokay collaborated on the design. This beautiful artwork is a testament to the generosity of Mademoiselle Suzanne Tallec. Her legacy made it possible.
Despite its understated exterior the Chapelle Notre-Dame de Lourdes is full of beautiful works of art. A magnificent bas-relief of Our Lady of Lourdes by Gilles Candelier stands out. Created in 1988 the sculpture is powerful. It captures the Virgin’s fervor and emotion. This alone makes a visit worthwhile.
The Chapelle Notre-Dame de Lourdes is more than just stone and glass. It’s a living testament to faith. It shows devotion and the enduring spirit of a community. Its humble exterior belies its rich history. This sanctuary invites quiet reflection and prayer. This makes it a treasured place in Paris.