Project command 1967 (≈ 1967)
The Carmelites entrust the project to Sert.
1969-1971
Construction of Carmel
Construction of Carmel 1969-1971 (≈ 1970)
Edited by Josep Lluís Sert.
30 septembre 2013
Registration for historical monuments
Registration for historical monuments 30 septembre 2013 (≈ 2013)
Protection of the convent and its facilities.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
The Carmel in total, as well as the landscape modifications, work by José Luis Sert (Box B 22-25, 195, 204): inscription by decree of 30 September 2013
Key figures
Josep Lluís Sert - Architect
Manufacturer of the Mazille Carmel.
Origin and history
The Carmel of Peace is a convent of the Order of Carmel, built between 1969 and 1971 in Mazille, Saône-et-Loire. Designed by Catalan architect Josep Lluís Sert, former collaborator of Le Corbusier, this monument embodies modern movement with its clean lines and its use of concrete. Although unknown, it reflects the adaptation of modernism to the spiritual needs of the Carmelites, in a constant dialogue with the surrounding nature.
The project was born in 1967, when Carmelite leaders sought Sert to create a place for reform of their practices. Its approach, marked by simplicity and rigour, leads to a stripped architecture, innovative in the expression of concrete. The convent, surrounded by landscape developments also designed by Sert, is listed as historical monuments in 2013 for its heritage importance.
This Carmel is also distinguished by its harmonious integration into the landscape of Burgundy-Franche-Comté. Despite his discretion, he is part of Sert's legacy, author of other major works such as the Maeght Foundation or the Joan Miró Foundation. The site, owned by a cult association, remains a rare testimony of modern religious architecture in France.
The protection of Carmel in 2013 underscores its historical and architectural value. Protected elements include the entire building and its landscaped surroundings, reflecting a global vision where architecture and nature coexist. This monument, although poorly publicized, offers a unique reading of modernism applied to a monastic program.
