Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Notre-Dame-de-Bethléem chapel, located in Bras in the Var department (Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur), was built in the 13th century. It belonged to a commandory of the Order of the Temple, a military and religious order founded in the 12th century to protect pilgrims in the Holy Land. Its sober architecture, typical of Templar buildings, reflects their ideal of simplicity and functionality. The chapel was listed as historic monuments in 1957, recognizing its heritage value.

The building consists of a two-span nave and a semicircular apse oriented to the east, covered with a half dome. Two openings – a slot in the abside and an oculus in the south – illuminate the interior, creating a symbolic light game on the altar at noon. The bell tower, pierced with bays in the middle of the hangar, overlooks the east wall. The north gate, with its built-up walls, and an old gallery reserved for the commander (today Murated) testify to its medieval use.

Having become a private property, the chapel illustrates the Provencal Templar heritage, rare in the region. Its inscription in 1957 preserved this 13th century vestige, linked to the history of military orders and medieval religious architecture. Available sources (Wikipedia, Monumentum) highlight its historical and architectural interest, although its access is today restricted.

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