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Origin and history

The Oratorian College of Joyeuse is an educational institution founded in the 17th century in the city of Joyeuse, in Ardèche. It is closely linked to the religious and social history of the region, notably through its attachment to the Oratorian Order, a Reform Catholic congregation.

The establishment of the college dates back to 1620, when Duchess Henriette Catherine de Joyeuse, wife of Charles de Guise, founded the establishment in collaboration with Cardinal de Bérulle. This project builds on the goods bequeathed by William of Joyeuse and Francis of Joyeuse, with the approval of Pope Paul V, the consuls and the inhabitants of Joyeuse. This foundation coincides with the separation of the parish of Joyeuse from that of Rosières and the beginning of the reconstruction of the local church.

The architectural ensemble was completed in 1676, after more than half a century of work. The college operates under the direction of the Oratorians until the French Revolution, when their activities end. The building, a witness to this religious and educational history, was finally listed as historic monuments in 1988, thus recognizing its heritage value.

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