Whispers of the past echo here in Rue des Brigittines. This unassuming passage in Lille holds a dark and captivating history. It was once the sole access to the Convent of the Brigittines. Founded in 1604 this convent witnessed extraordinary events. Anne Dubois a Lilloise nun established it with support from Nicolas de Montmorency. He was a significant figure in the financial council. He held considerable influence at court.
The convent’s early years were marked by turmoil. In 1612 disturbing events unfolded. Nuns contorted themselves. They shouted. They even overturned the abbess. They danced on the altar during Pentecost. One pious nun Marie de Sains confessed to demonic possession.
A trial followed. Two renowned exorcists intervened. Marie confessed to a pact with the Devil. She described elaborate sabbats orgies with both humans and demons. Her confessions reflected the exorcists’ fantasies. She claimed to have murdered and tortured children.
The case reached the Pope in 1614. The Holy Office doubted the guilt of the nuns. Marie remained imprisoned. She died around 1630 neither condemned nor absolved. After this the convent faded from public attention.
The convent’s access Rue des Brigittines was opened in 1673. The convent became national property in 1794. It was divided into houses. The façades are partly from the original convent. Initially a dead end the passage was extended to Rue Saint-Sauveur after the convent’s disappearance.
The narrow winding passage housed poor families. Some buildings were adapted for industrial use. A cotton mill operating in 1820 employed about 100 workers by 1849. The area faced demolition around 1960. The Rue des Brigittines survived thanks to a council member Dr Jules Defaux.
Today Rue des Brigittines is a quiet residential area. It’s a sought-after location near the city center. The buildings have been carefully restored. Original elements remain on the facades. Figures on capitals inscriptions and dates mark the houses. These speak of a past steeped in both faith and fear. They offer a tangible connection to this intriguing chapter in Lille’s history. Remember the tales of the Rue des Brigittines. They remind us that history lurks in unexpected corners. Even the quietest places hold secrets waiting to be uncovered.