Former Carmelite Convent of Beaune

The former Carmel of Beaune

The Beaune audio-guided tour points out to you a facade that hides a place full of silence and history: the former Carmel of Beaune. A former convent of Carmelite nuns, this place of contemplation and prayer is discovered with respect, in the sobriety proper to monastic life.

Two centuries of contemplative life

Founded in 1619, the Carmel housed for more than two centuries a community of Carmelite nuns, cloistered religious women living in prayer, solitude and simplicity. Faithful to the rule of Carmel, born in the Middle East and reformed in the 16th century by Saint Teresa of Avila, the place was deliberately plain, without pomp or heavy decoration. The massive building is organised around a cloister and an inner garden, sheltered from the tumult of the world.

What there is to see

The bare architecture of the former Carmel reflects the spirituality of the place: a plain building, without unnecessary ornament, turned towards prayer and contemplation. The Carmel of Beaune is associated with the figure of Marguerite of the Blessed Sacrament and with the devotion to the Child Jesus. It is approached with respect, keeping in mind the long spiritual history that inhabits it.

Practical information

The former Carmel of Beaune is in the centre of the town. Depending on the period, the place may keep a religious vocation or host activities linked to the sanctuary; its access depends on this function and is not that of an ordinary tourist site. The facade can be seen from the street, with discretion and respect; it is best to check locally.

When was the Carmel of Beaune founded ?

It was founded in 1619 and housed for more than two centuries a community of cloistered Carmelite nuns.

Why is the Carmel's architecture so plain ?

Because it reflects the rule of Carmel, based on prayer, solitude and simplicity, reformed by Saint Teresa of Avila.