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Origin and history

The chapel of the Black Penitents of Carpentras, also known as the chapel of the Très-Saint-Crucifix, is an ancient Catholic chapel located in the town of Carpentras, in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. Built in the 2nd quarter of the 18th century, it is located close to Saint-Siffrein Cathedral, within the walls of the old city walls. This monument, now disused, was originally dedicated to charitable works and processions organized by the Brotherhood of Black Penitents, founded in 1511.

The Brotherhood of Black Penitents, composed exclusively of men, had the task of providing assistance to the poorest and organizing charitable works. Their name comes from the black dress they wore during the processions, especially during Holy Week. In 1738, for lack of their own place of worship, they began the construction of this chapel, whose plans were attributed to the local architect Antoine d'Allemand. The work, which lasts three years, culminates in a classical building, marked by a central nave and side chapels.

During the French Revolution, the brotherhood was banned and its members dispersed. It was rebuilt in the early 19th century, but became inactive in the mid 20th century. Reactivated in the 1990s, it can no longer use the chapel, bought by the municipality, and now meets in other places of worship in Carpentras. The chapel, built in masonry, is distinguished by a visible facade, while its side walls and bedside are adjoining the neighbouring buildings.

The architecture of the chapel reflects a classical plan, with a unique nave and side chapels inserted between the foothills. Although disused, it remains an important testimony of the religious and architectural history of Carpentras, as well as of the activity of the brotherhoods of penitents, very present in southern France from the Middle Ages.

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