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Origin and history

The convent of the Cordeliers de Chartres, founded in the 16th century, has had a turbulent history since its origins. A first convent was destroyed in 1568 during the siege of Chartres and rebuilt from 1570. The portal, dated 1572 and located 42 rue Saint-Michel, as well as the chapel, completed in 1576, testify to this reconstruction. The bas-reliefs and inscriptions on the portal's tricks recall this period of rebirth after the troubles.

Over the centuries, the convent has undergone major changes. Conventual buildings, although remodeled inside, have retained their original volume and exterior appearance. In 1887, architect Alfred Piébourg incorporated part of the existing structures into the construction of the Marceau High School, a typical school in the Third Republic, designed to accommodate 450 students. The materials used, such as Berchères' stone, and architectural elements, such as wrought ironworks, reflect this era.

The convent experienced various assignments in the 20th century. The school's chapel and chemistry amphitheatre became the Natural History Museum in 1968. Since 2003, the cloister has been home to the National School of Music and Dance in Chartres, while the rest of the buildings remain dedicated to the Marceau High School. Several parts of the site are protected as historical monuments, including facades, cloister galleries, and portal, registered between 1979 and 2000.

The architecture of the place thus mixes Renaissance elements, such as the portal and the chapel, with 19th century additions, illustrating the evolution of usages and styles. The Cordeliers convent today embodies a religious, educational and cultural heritage, rooted in the urban history of Chartres.

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