Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The chapel of the Holy Sepulchre is an annex to the church of Saint Saturnin of Belpech, in the Aude, built at the end of the 15th century. It was commissioned by the family of Claverie, whose monogram appears on the inside, and houses a carved tomb-lay, nine angels bearing the attributes of the Passion, as well as 15th-century statues (Saint-Michel, Saint-Joseph, Saint-François d'Assisi). A 16th century grid closed the access, and Gothic funeral steles from the Saint-Michel cemetery were moved there.

The chapel also contains panels painted on wood from the late 15th century, classified in 1906, representing local religious figures such as Pope Benedict XII, Cardinal William of Court Novel and Bishop John of Cojordan (both native of Belpech). A 16th century stone statuette, representing a pregnant Virgin, has been classified there since 1988. These elements illustrate the artistic and historical significance of the site.

Classified as historical monuments since 26 December 1906 with the portal of the church of Saint Saturn, the chapel bears witness to the patronage of the family of Claverie and the religious role of Belpech in the late Middle Ages. Its architecture and works reflect the devotional and funeral practices of the time, while emphasizing the links between the local community and the Church.

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