Imagine a tent rising towards the sky. That is the unique design of u00c9glise Notre-Dame-des-Neiges. We stand before a church like no other. It is famous for its architecture. It is also known for its organ shaped like an outstretched hand.
u00c9glise Notre-Dame-des-Neiges is further distinguished by its thirteen stained-glass windows. These windows illustrate scenes from the Gospel according to Saint Mark. The artist Arcabas painted them. His artwork brings vibrant color and light to the church interior.
This church is a magnificent example of contemporary architecture. Some say its style resembles that of Le Corbusier. Its tent-like shape makes it stand out. Translucent glass forms the dome. This allows natural light to flood the space.
The story of u00c9glise Notre-Dame-des-Neiges begins with a small wooden chapel. Before the 1968 Olympic Games, there was a vision. The people wanted a larger church. They wanted one with a view of the Meije mountain.
A Dutch priest named Jaap Reuten spearheaded the project. He served there from 1964 to 1992. Under his guidance, the church became a reality. Notre-Dame des Neiges was inaugurated on December 6, 1969.
Parishioners and benefactors donated funds to build it. Simple materials were used in its construction. Concrete forms the circular frame. Copper covers the roof. Glued laminated timber makes up the framework. These materials create a unique and striking structure.
Arcabas, an artist from Isu00e8re, created the stained-glass windows. One notable window is La Cu00e8ne. It was displayed at the Chartes International Stained Glass Center exhibition in 2014. The stained glass adds greatly to the spiritual atmosphere.
Laurence Monroe directed a film about the church. It tells the story of its construction. It also shows its liturgical and cultural life. KTO broadcast the film in 2013. It shared the church’s history with a wider audience.
u00c9glise Notre-Dame-des-Neiges is open daily from 8:30 am to 7 pm. It is closed in May and November. In summer, Mass is held on Sundays at 6 pm. This schedule runs from July 7 to August 25. An exception is July 28 when Mass is at Village d’Huez at 11 am.
Inside, the church provides toilets for visitors. There is also a shop. Here, you can find souvenirs. The Alpe d’Huez tourist office arranges guided tours.
Visiting u00c9glise Notre-Dame-des-Neiges is free. It is open to all who wish to experience its unique beauty. It is not just a church. It is a cultural landmark. It represents faith, art, and community spirit. As you leave, remember the story of this special place. Remember the outstretched hand reaching towards the heavens.