Arrival of the nuns of the Visitation 1644 (≈ 1644)
Called by Bishop Jean de Genouillac.
1660
Donation for a first church
Donation for a first church 1660 (≈ 1660)
Construction of a church for nuns.
1743
Construction of the current chapel
Construction of the current chapel 1743 (≈ 1743)
Circular plan designed by Lacombe.
1789 (Rvolution)
Conversion to hospital
Conversion to hospital 1789 (Rvolution) (≈ 1789)
Change of usage during the Revolution.
1987
Historical Monument
Historical Monument 1987 (≈ 1987)
Registration of the chapel and its decor.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Chapel with interior decoration (Box BH 285): inscription by decree of 20 October 1987
Key figures
Jean de Genouillac - Bishop of Tulle
Called the nuns of the Visitation.
Lacombe - Confessor of the nuns
Author of the 1743 plans.
Origin and history
The chapel of the Hospital of Tulle finds its origins in the arrival of the nuns of the Visitation in Tulle in 1644, called by Bishop Jean de Genouillac. Their mission was to educate girls. In 1660, a donation allowed them to build a first church. However, it was in 1743 that a new building was erected according to the plans of Lacombe, confessor of the nuns, adopting a circular centered plan.
The architecture of the chapel is characterized by a main facade adorned with pilasters and a pediment, as well as three front-body gable walls on the exterior walls. Six full arched bays pierce the walls, while the pepper roof, initially surmounted by an eight-bay lantern, completes the whole. Inside, four vaulted cul-de-four chapels and a circular cupola with eight penetration vaults form a remarkable space. The interior decoration, consisting of false marble and ebony imitation paintings, bears witness to the care taken to this building.
At the Revolution, the chapel was converted into a hospital, marking a radical change in its use. The building, classified as a Historical Monument in 1987 for its chapel and interior decoration, is now owned by the municipality of Tulle. Its architecture and history reflect both the religious heritage and the political upheavals that marked the region.
The location of the chapel at 11 Rue du Fournivoulet in Tulle is approximate, with an accuracy considered fair (5/10). This building remains a major architectural and historical testimony of the Corrèze, now integrated into the New Aquitaine region.
