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Origin and history

The convent of the Ursulines of Montargis was built from 1644, in the middle of the seventeenth century. It has retained some of its original buildings, integrated among more recent constructions. The site was marked by the stay of Madame Guyon, figure of quietism, between 1655 and 1659. During the Revolution, the convent was reassigned to Hôtel-Dieu and then served as a hospital until 1993, undergoing major architectural changes.

Today, there are only three U-wings left surrounding a cloister at two levels of galleries, without ornaments. The high galleries are supported by cast iron columns, while the interiors, largely redesigned, retain three original stairs with turned wooden balusters. A new façade, built between 1926 and 1932 by architect Philippon, presents an eclectic style combining brick and stone.

The convent was partially protected by an order of 11 April 1994, covering, inter alia, the courtyard of the cloister, the galleries, the facades of the old buildings, and the interior staircases. After World War II, new buildings were added, complementing the architectural ensemble. The site is now owned by a public institution.

The main access is through a porch decorated with mosaics, under a central pavilion. Successive transformations have erased much of the original aspect, but the cloister and some architectural elements still bear witness to its religious and hospital history.

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