To spot the Chapel of Charity, look for a stately stone façade ahead of you, marked by tall Corinthian columns and a large decorative medallion set high above the entrance, just to the west of the post office and near the grand Hotel Jules-César.
Alright, welcome to the place where drama, devotion, and maybe a touch of hotel glamour all mingled together! Before you is the Chapel of Charity, which might seem a little shy about its centuries-old story but, oh, what a tale it could tell! Back in the 17th century, the Carmelite nuns, having settled in Arles since 1631, were on a bit of a real estate adventure. By 1634, they snapped up land near the gate of Marché-Neuf-imagine nuns with blueprints and big dreams, making deals that would outlast revolutions! Their convent expanded near what was the ancient hospital for the poor, a far cry from its modern day neighbor, the former luxury Jules-César hotel.
But change swept through faster than you can say “revolution!” By the time the French Revolution rolled around, the nuns were kicked out, and the old hospital was judged too ancient-so the patients moved into the nuns' former digs. Call it a historical game of musical chairs! Still, the name “Chapel of Charity” stuck, echoing both its caretaking past and a little bit of divine irony.
Now, take in the grand entrance. Built from 1708, that porch is held up by twin Corinthian columns, guarding secrets and stories. Peer up at the sculpted heart pierced by an arrow-a reference to the mystical vision of Saint Teresa, patron saint of these adventurous nuns. Picture the inside as it was: arches soaring over three richly adorned bays, side chapels glowing with candlelight, and an air thick with incense and whispered prayers. Don’t miss the masterpieces! The main altar and baroque altarpiece were local bragging rights, sculpted by Jean-Baptiste Péru and centered around a painting by Pierre Parrocel-Saint Teresa, mid-apotheosis, looking like she’s ready for a very dramatic spotlight.
Fast-forward a few centuries: after serving as a theater for hotel guests (I’ll bet those performances were divine!), the chapel landed in the hands of the town. Today, it’s alive with art exhibitions and creative buzz. And who knows? Somewhere in there, a Carmelite spirit might still be quietly rehearsing her lines. Enjoy this beautiful blend of sacred and spectacular right here on the boulevard des Lices!
