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The Notre-Dame de la Consolation chapel in Arpavon is built on an ancient place of worship. The original "Vierge Marie d'Onglon" chapel was destroyed during the Wars of Religion, then rebuilt in 1637.
Description
It was only in 1720 that it was renamed "Notre dame de la consolation". Notre-Dame de Consolation was much frequented by neighboring populations, especially in times of calamity. Among the ex-votos that attest to the fact that Mary often answered prayers made in this sanctuary, we note the one placed there in 1720 by the noble Raynard-Lespinasse family of Avignon, in gratitude for the health restored to a child who was about to die of the plague. The descendants of this miracle child, after endowing the sanctuary with a rich ornament, have recently (1866) given it a bell and a beautiful painting. As for the origin of the chapel, we attribute it : - to the instinct of a herd which, leaving the meadow, always went to graze on the summit of the mountain; - to the movement of materials which were tried in vain to raise at the foot of the mountain; they were moved during the night; - to the sudden gush of a spring which provided the water necessary for the construction on this high point, and where pilgrims still quench their thirst today. The chapel, surrounded by lime trees, offers a view over the valley and the village of Arpavon. It was twice restored in the 19th century. Its modern paintings were carried out by Mr LAZAREV Stépan in 1979-80. An annual pilgrimage is held on a Sunday in September.
Spoken languages
- French
Themes
- Religious heritage
- Church