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Origin and history

Cambrai's convent of the Recollets came into being in 1266, when the Cordeliers, a monastic community, settled there. This first establishment was replaced in 1600 by the Recollets, a reformed Franciscan order. At its peak in the 18th century, the convent housed some 50 religious. Today, it remains only the nave of the chapel, built in 1303 under the name of the Holy Cross and Saint Francis, as well as a convent building dating from 1612, formerly dedicated to the reception of the guests and the porterry.

The portal of the chapel, erected in 1408 by Bishop Pierre d'Ailly, and the bell tower, rebuilt twice before disappearing in the 19th century, testify to the architectural changes of the site. The choir, added in 1623 in a late Gothic style contrasting with the sober nave, has now disappeared, although its foundations were discovered by archaeological excavations. These remains reveal a superimposition of styles, reflecting the transformations of the convent over the centuries.

The French Revolution marked a turning point in 1791, ending five centuries of monastic life. The religious were expelled, and the convent, which became a national property, was converted into a military forage park, a function which he retained until the 20th century. In 1854, a total demolition project was envisaged because of the fire risks associated with forage stocks, but it was finally abandoned. Since then, the site has been rehabilitated and now houses Malraux School, providing a historic setting for a modern educational institution.

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