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Origin and history

The chapel Notre-Dame de Spéluque, located in Ampus in the Var, dates back to the 10th century, although its current construction dates mainly from the 4th quarter of the 11th century. It was erected on a site probably occupied by an ancient pagan place of worship, then Christianized. The building, of Provencal Romanesque style, consists of a unique nave with three spans completed by a semicircular choir vaulted in cul-de-four. Its 11th century pentapod altar, decorated with twisted and smooth columns, is a rare example of medieval liturgical furniture. The stained glass windows of the 14th century, probably along with the 19th century repairs, testify to its architectural evolution.

Consecrated on 10 January 1090 by Bérenger III, bishop of Fréjus, the chapel was initially a priory dependent on the abbey of Lérins. According to local tradition, its foundation would be linked to a victory of the inhabitants over the Saracens in the tenth century, commemorating a vow made to the Virgin. In the Middle Ages, it housed a monastery and a village, later destroyed by a knight named Tuan. After the Revolution, sold as a national property in 1793, it served as an agricultural shelter before being redeemed by the Jerphanion family, who restored it to worship in the 19th century. The repairs of 1868 added a bell tower and hermitage.

Classified as a Historical Monument by decree of 26 June 1990, the chapel is now owned by the Diocesan Association of Fréjus-Toulon, managed by the Friends of Notre-Dame-de-Spéluque. Its site, rich in Roman remains (mileage of Via Aurelia) and biodiversity (century oaks, micocolier), enjoys dual heritage and environmental protection. The presence of the Society of Saint-Charbel, a contemplative monastic community, has continued its spiritual vocation since the 1990s. Liturgical ceremonies in extraordinary Roman rite and concerts are held regularly.

The name Spelucus (or Espeluca) comes from the Latin spelunca ("Groat"), perhaps evoking an ancient troglodyte oratory. The chapel preserves Gallo-Roman elements, such as a nearby Milemark, and medieval traces, including foliage capitals. Its furniture includes a bell of 1843 and restored stained glass windows. The site, marked by storms in 2008-2009, was the subject of roof work under the control of the Bâtiments de France.

The chapel is open to the public at cultural and religious events, such as the Sunday Mass in Gregorian chant or the 2007 concert with Marion Le Pelletier (alto) and Benoît Tisserand (organ). In 2017, Bishop Dominique Rey presided over a solemn ceremony, accompanied by the Gregorian Jubilate choir of Toulon and the folkloric group Lou Pebre dai. The local association also organizes the feast of Notre-Dame-du-Plan, mixing heritage and Provencal traditions.

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