Here on Rue Notre-Dame-des-Anges, we uncover a story of faith, art, and intellect. This street is home to the Chapelle Notre-Dame-des-Anges. The chapel stands at 102 bis rue de Vaugirard. It is in Paris’s 6th arrondissement.
The Chapelle Notre-Dame-des-Anges’ story starts with the Soci\u00e9t\u00e9 de Marie. This group of Marist fathers, brothers, and sisters formed in 1822. Father Jean-Claude Colin’s determination led to its creation. Their mission was to spread the Gospel. They aimed to increase God’s glory and honor the Holy Mother through retreats and education. They also went on overseas missions.
In 1863, the Marists built the Chapelle Notre-Dame-des-Anges. Architect P. Gally designed it. The chapel’s style is neo-Gothic. It features 37 stained glass windows by Joseph Vign\u00e9. These windows are dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
The nearby home for Marist fathers hosted the Cercle Montalembert. It offered religious training to students. In 1898, P. Plazenet founded a student center for provincials. This annex to the Cercle was very popular. It moved to number 104. Students engaged in Catholic activism. They formed Catholic groups and social teams. They also participated in scouting.
Famous politicians, writers, and entrepreneurs lived here. Fran\u00e7ois Mitterrand and Edouard Balladur were among them. Fran\u00e7ois Mauriac and Andr\u00e9 Bettencourt also resided here during their studies.
However, priorities shifted over time. Students focused more on their work conditions. They gave less attention to spiritual and philosophical development. The student center closed in 1981 because of these issues.
The “Forum 104” replaced it. This cultural center promoted inter-religious dialogue. The Marist fathers ran it. Today, Assomptionist religious leaders assist the Christian community. They took over from the Marists in 2014.
The Chapelle Notre-Dame-des-Anges was listed as a historical monument in 1984. The chapel is generally open on weekdays from 5 PM to 7 PM. On Mondays, it opens at 6 PM. Step inside to see the stunning stained glass. Feel the history within its walls.
The Rue Notre-Dame-des-Anges offers a glimpse into Parisian history. It showcases faith, education, and cultural change. It reminds us that even quiet streets have compelling stories to tell.