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Origin and history

The Chartreuse de Currières is a 13th century monastery located in the Dauphiné, in Saint-Laurent-du-Pont (Isère, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region). Originally conceived as an isolated place conducive to meditation, it was attached to the Great Chartreuse in 1388, serving as an annex, refuge or infirmary for the monks. Its architecture and history reflect the Cartusian ideal of austerity and recollection.

Founded by Amblard d'Entremont between 1212 and 1297, the Chartreuse suffered the upheavals of the French Revolution: closed, looted and partially destroyed, it was reinvested in the 19th century by the Chartreux, who created an institution for deaf-muet children. Expelled in 1903, the monks gave way to various uses: barracks during the First World War, refuge for resistors and resistors to the STO during the Second World War, and then vacation colony from 1945 to 1970.

In 1973 the Chartreux entrusted the monastery to the nuns of Bethlehem, who established a contemplative community there under the name of Notre-Dame-du-Buisson-Ardent. Since then, the site, not open to visits, also houses a nearby male monastery. Only a monastic craft shop allows limited contact with the outside. The 13th century carved door, classified as a Historic Monument in 1927, bears witness to its medieval heritage.

The monastery illustrates the religious and social changes in the region, moving from a place of spiritual retreat to a refuge in times of crisis, before returning to its contemplative vocation. Its history combines persecution, adaptation and resilience, while preserving its isolated and mysterious character.

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