Temple of the Carmelites

The Temple of the Carmes

The Montauban audio-guided tour invites you to quiet contemplation before the Temple of the Carmes, a former convent whose history goes back to the thirteenth century, nestled at the border of the Tarn and the Tescou.

The return of the Carmes

In the thirteenth century, Montauban saw a network of convents develop outside its walls. That of the order of the Carmes came into being in 1280. With the Wars of Religion of the sixteenth century, opposing Catholics and Protestants, the building was entirely destroyed. Banished but not discouraged, the Carmes returned to Montauban in 1631, after the appeasement of the religious conflicts, and rebuilt their establishment, inaugurated in 1717. Listed as a historic monument since 1971, the site holds a pretty cloister and a landscaped garden faithful to medieval traditions.

What there is to see

In contemplation, the visitor discovers the cloister and its landscaped garden, organised in four plots of medicinal, ornamental, vegetable and fruit plants, around a central fountain. The site today hosts the rehearsals of the music conservatory: one enters in silence, so as not to disturb them. It is a haven of peace laden with history, to be discovered with respect.

Practical information

The Temple of the Carmes is in the centre of Montauban, near the Tarn. The site, which hosts the music conservatory, can be visited according to its own hours; it is appropriate to enter in silence, in particular during rehearsals. Access to the cloister is on the level.

When was the convent of the Carmes founded?

In 1280; destroyed during the Wars of Religion, it was rebuilt by the Carmes on their return to Montauban and inaugurated in 1717.

What does the Temple of the Carmes house today?

A cloister and a medieval garden, as well as the music conservatory, whose rehearsals are held there.