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Origin and history

The chapel of the Blue Penitents, located in La Ciotat in the Bouches-du-Rhône, was built in 1626 for the brotherhood of the Blue Penitents, founded in 1597. Composed of local sailors, merchants and artisans, this pious charity society decides to enlarge its initial chapel to accommodate its members. The works, led by master masons Antoine Drecht and Antoine Chaulier, are based on the plans of Pierre Pourtaud, planning an extension towards the sea. The nave, 46 metres long, is lit by fourteen windows with unique shapes, while the octagonal lantern tower, added between 1633 and 1650, contrasts with its classic style.

The chapel was looted during the French Revolution (1792-1793), then transformed into a barracks in 1805 before being abandoned in 1807, considered a ruin. Repurchase and resale followed in the 19th century: the reconstituted brotherhood recovered it in 1822, but it was seized and became civil property. In the 20th century, it served as a workshop, sawmill, and then a municipal garage. Ranked a historic monument in 1992, it was restored in 1980 by architect Yvan Pierre Gouirand. Disused of cult, since 1990 it has hosted exhibitions by local and international artists, such as Georges Braque or Elvire Jan.

With Genoese inspiration, the chapel reflects the maritime influence of La Ciotat, a prosperous port of the seventeenth century. Its seven bays vaulted with warhead crosses and its stained glass windows, made in 1633 by Jacques de France, testify to the artistic richness of Contré-Reform. The esplanade facing the sea, where the monument stands, highlights its link with the port activities of penitents, mostly seafarers. Today a communal property, it combines religious heritage and cultural vocation, sheltering contemporary works in a preserved historical setting.

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