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Origin and history

The Carmel de Sens, founded on 2 July 1625 by Archbishop de Bellegarde, is one of the first Carmels established in France. Located at 149 rue de la Résistance, it embodies the religious architecture of the first half of the 17th century. The convent still houses a Carmelite community, perpetuating a spiritual and artisanal tradition that has been unbroken for nearly four centuries.

At the Revolution, Carmel was confiscated and sold as a national property in 1793, becoming a cotton factory while its chapel was transformed into a stable. The nuns did not return until September 29, 1823, after the Restoration. The convent was renovated at the end of the 19th century, but was restricted under the Third Republic, when the anticlerical authorities prohibited the opening of the chapel to the public between 1903 and 1906.

The Carmel preserves a remarkable artistic heritage, including a 16th century Mise au Tombeau, native to St. Stephen's Cathedral in Sens, as well as an oratory decorated with 17th century murals. The cloister and interior decorations, partially protected since 1995, bear witness to its turbulent history. Today, Carmelites live there with prayers and handwork, producing hosties, rosaries and liturgical ornaments, while diversifying their activities with the sale of beer since 2016.

The monument, registered as a historical monument in 1995, remains an active place of worship. The Sunday Mass is celebrated at 9 a.m., and the weekday services are the rhythm of the spiritual life of the convent. Its exact address, 149 rue de la Resistance in Sens (Yonne), makes it a historical and religious anchor in Burgundy-Franche-Comté.

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