Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The commandory of Laon, also known as the Templar Chapel, was built in the 12th century. Founded in 1128 with the support of Bartholomew of Jur and the agreement of Pope Honorius II, it initially served as a base for the Templars before moving to the Hospitallers of St John of Jerusalem in 1312, after the dissolution of the Order of the Temple. The octagonal chapel was built around 1140, inspired by the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. It became an architectural model, influencing the chapel of Metz.

Originally conceived as a funeral chapel, it now houses historical burials, including the layman of William de Harcigny, a doctor of Charles VI. During the Revolution, the buildings were transformed into prison, replacing Louis d'Outremer's tower, which had become insufficient. The chapel, classified as a historical monument in 1846, was restored in 1891 when it was converted into a museum, while retaining its 12th century porch and 14th century bell tower.

Architecturally, the chapel is distinguished by its plan centered in limestone, arched in dogives, and its choir in cul-de-four. The adjacent museum, set in L, was fitted out with zenithal lighting and a frame staircase. The major modifications date back to 1891, when the chapel was preserved, while the auxiliary buildings were adapted to their new museum function. The command office thus illustrates the evolution of religious, military and cultural usages of the same place throughout the centuries.

Future

It is currently part of the museum of Laon which contains, within it, the laying of the tombstone of Guillaume de Harcigny, doctor of King Charles VI of France.

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