Église Notre-Dame-de-Compassion, nestled in the bustling 17th arrondissement of Paris, is a quaint yet historically rich Catholic church that once stood on the territory of Neuilly-sur-Seine. Originally known as église Notre-Dame-de-Compassion, this charming edifice offers visitors a glimpse into the past, a sanctuary of solace, and a testament to enduring architectural beauty.
The story of Église Notre-Dame-de-Compassion begins with a tragic event. On July 13, 1842, Prince Ferdinand-Philippe d'Orléans, the eldest son of King Louis-Philippe of France, met with a fatal accident. The prince, while traveling to bid farewell to his parents before departing for Saint-Omer, suffered a catastrophic fall from his carriage. Despite immediate medical attention, the prince succumbed to his injuries in a nearby house, which was later transformed into the chapel we see today.
In the wake of this tragedy, Queen Marie-Amélie commissioned the construction of a chapel at the exact location where her son passed away. Built between 1842 and 1843, the chapel was initially named Saint-Ferdinand before being rechristened as Notre-Dame-de-Compassion. The task of designing this solemn structure was entrusted to Pierre-François-Léonard Fontaine, the architect of the king. Fontaine's vision materialized into a neo-Byzantine style chapel, reminiscent of ancient tombs, embodying both reverence and artistic grandeur.
The chapel's historical significance is deeply intertwined with the personal grief of the royal family. The interior of Église Notre-Dame-de-Compassion is a treasure trove of art and history. One of the most poignant pieces is the cenotaph of Prince Ferdinand-Philippe d'Orléans, sculpted by Henri de Triqueti based on the designs of Ary Scheffer. The cenotaph captures the prince in his final moments, lying in uniform on a mattress, with an angel, designed by the prince's sister, Marie d'Orléans, watching over him. This sculpture is not just a work of art but a moving tribute to a beloved son and brother.
The chapel's stained glass windows, crafted by the renowned artist Ingres, are another highlight. These windows, produced at the Sèvres manufactory, depict members of the royal family as various saints. The faces of King Louis-Philippe and Queen Marie-Amélie are immortalized in the figures of saints and saintesses, adding a personal touch to the sacred space. Ingres' swift and heartfelt execution of these designs is a testament to the deep respect and sympathy he held for the royal family.
Église Notre-Dame-de-Compassion is not just a historical monument but also an architectural marvel. Its Greek cross plan and neo-Byzantine style set it apart from other churches in the region. The exterior is adorned with intricate carvings and symbols, while the interior boasts a rich array of sculptures and artworks. The Pietà above the altar, sculpted by Henri de Triqueti from Ary Scheffer's design, is particularly noteworthy. The faces of the Virgin Mary and Jesus in this sculpture are believed to be modeled after Queen Marie-Amélie and Prince Ferdinand-Philippe, respectively, adding a layer of personal significance to the piece.
In the 20th century, the chapel faced the threat of demolition during the construction of the Paris ring road. However, thanks to the efforts of André Malraux, the then Minister of Cultural Affairs, the chapel was relocated stone by stone to its current location at 25 Boulevard Pershing. The relocation, carried out between 1970 and 1971, was a meticulous process that ensured the preservation of this historical gem.
Today, Église Notre-Dame-de-Compassion serves as a parish church, welcoming both locals and tourists. The church is unique in that it hosts a Spanish-speaking community, with Saturday evening masses conducted in Spanish. The Virgin of Rocio, a revered figure in Spanish culture, holds a special place in the church, adorned in garments designed by the legendary Yves Saint Laurent. These garments were even showcased at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 2018, highlighting the blend of history, art, and fashion that Église Notre-Dame-de-Compassion embodies.
For visitors, Église Notre-Dame-de-Compassion offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Paris. The church's tranquil garden, enclosed by wrought-iron gates and shaded by trees, provides a peaceful setting for reflection. Inside, the rich history and artistic treasures invite contemplation and admiration. The church stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Orléans family and their deep connection to this site.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply seeking a moment of peace, Église Notre-Dame-de-Compassion is a must-visit. Its walls echo with stories of love, loss, and resilience, offering a poignant reminder of the human experiences that shape our history. As you step through its doors, you are not just entering a church, but a living monument to the past, a place where history and compassion converge.
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