Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The chapel of the refuge of the abbey of Vaucelles, located in Cambrai in the Hauts-de-France, was built in 1238 by Abbé de Vaucelles. It reproduces the capitular hall of the abbey on a reduced scale, that is a quarter of its original surface. This monument, originally conceived as a retreat place for monks, illustrates 13th century religious architecture, marked by late Romanesque influences and the beginnings of Gothic style.

In the 15th century, architectural changes transformed the oculi (circular openings) of the facade into geminate bays, typical of medieval stylistic evolution. These adjustments reflect the liturgical and aesthetic adaptations of the time, while preserving the original structure. The chapel thus preserves traces of the transitions between the Romanesque and Gothic periods.

In the mid-19th century, the architect of Baralle intervened on the site by revealing the remains of the Romanesque facade, which he chose to preserve. He also undertook a restoration of the interior, organizing the space around a central column with a capital adorned with hooks. This column supports quadripartite arches in warheads, characteristic of Gothic architecture. The building, of rectangular plan, then bears witness to a superimposition of styles and periods.

Ranked among the Historical Monuments since 2004, the chapel protects its facades, roofs and interior, located on the first floor of the refuge. Today owned by an association, it embodies both a religious heritage and an example of architectural preservation throughout the centuries. Its official address, 8 rue Vaucelette in Cambrai, makes it an accessible place for studying monastic history and the evolution of construction techniques.

External links