First written entry 1041 (≈ 1041)
"Terriorium Clarimontis" quoted in an act.
XIIe siècle
Construction of the chapel
Construction of the chapel XIIe siècle (≈ 1250)
Edification in the existing priory.
20 juillet 1972
Registration for historical monuments
Registration for historical monuments 20 juillet 1972 (≈ 1972)
Protection of remains and frescoes.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Clairmont (vestiges) (Box O 389): inscription by order of 20 July 1972
Key figures
Évêques d'Apt - Initial owners
Owned the castle before Simiane's family.
Famille de Simiane - Subsequent owners
Heirs of the castle and territory.
Origin and history
Notre-Dame-de-Clairmont Chapel is a 12th century religious building located in Apt, Vaucluse. It is part of a priory whose rectangular nave, divided into four vaulted bays in cradle, and semicircular cul-de-four abside testify to Romanesque architecture. Traces of 14th century frescoes remain on its walls, and its lateral entrance reflects the constructive traditions of the era.
The site, occupied since Antiquity by an oppidum, is mentioned in 1041 under the name of "terriorium Clarimontis" in an act linked to the abbey Saint-Pierre-des-Tourettes. A castle was built there, successively owned by the bishops of Apt and the family of Simiane. The chapel, built in the 12th century, is now reduced to the state of remains. It was listed as historic monuments on 20 July 1972 for its heritage interest.
Architecturally, the chapel illustrates Provencal Romanesque characteristics: cradle vaults, cul-de-four apse, and side door allowing a traditional porch. Its present state, though partial, offers an overview of medieval religious and artistic practices in the region, marked by the still visible 14th century fresco.
