Life continues in the chapel of Ronchamp, despite the works. Le Corbusier’s exceptional work has been under renovation since March 2021. They will continue until at least July 2024. This Monday, hundreds of faithful gathered for the ceremony of the assumption. Some surprised at the state of the chapel, sometimes disappointed, but for the most part curious to observe the work in progress. Because the construction site makes it possible to better discover the chapel and reveal its secrets.
Manufacturing secrets hidden in concrete
Jean-Jacques Virot, president of the Œuvre Notre-Dame du Haut association, walks around the huge white concrete chapel. “We discover that there have already been interventions, that we have already repaired. We have been able to discover ways of repairing, with sealants, things like that”, he explains. More singular materials were also used. Testifies to this a piece of plastic, which connected two facades. “It’s vulgarly a garden hose, which is drowned in a bath of tar”describes Jean-Jacques Virot.
– Nicolas Joly
The west wall is also full of manufacturing secrets. “There we had a large opening. You have to imagine a garage door”observes the president of the association Œuvre Notre-Dame du Haut. “The idea was to put the furniture in this shape, which was closed with brick. Everything else is traditional masonry, and right next to it, a volume that is made of brick”.
Despite the works, life goes on
– Nicolas Joly
Although the south wall is covered with scaffolding, it is important that parish life continues estimates Chloé Le Brech, in charge of mediation: “We have visitors who are sometimes a little frustrated to see that there is scaffolding. So we reassure them by telling them that it is only on one side and not on the four. And generally, they are quite interested during guided tours to learn more about this restoration.” Site visits are at 3 p.m. That of August 18 is complete, but there are places left for that of August 31, by reservation. Information available on 03 84 20 65 13.