Why did Le Corbusier design the Ronchamp chapel?

Between 1950 and 1953, in collaboration with architect and engineer André Maissonnier, Le Corbusier developed various drawings and scale models of the Ronchamp chapel design; yet, his architectural idea was pretty clear from the beginning. The Swiss architect’s intention was “to create a place of silence, prayer, peace, and inner joy”.

Who designed the Notre Dame du Haut chapel?

The Notre Dame du Haut chapel by Le Corbusier. Between 1950 and 1953, in collaboration with architect and engineer André Maissonnier, Le Corbusier developed various drawings and scale models of the Ronchamp chapel design; yet, his architectural idea was pretty clear since the beginning.

What is the significance of Notre Dame de Ronchamp?

The Chapelle Notre-Dame du Haut de Ronchamp is iconic of Christianity’s sacred architecture, revolutionizing 20th century religious architecture. The chapel sits on the Bourlémont hilltop, dominating the “Belfort gap” between the Vosges and Jura mountain ranges.

Where is the Ronchamp chapel?

Located on the top of a hill above the village of Ronchamp, it is the latest of a long history of pilgrimage chapels erected on the site. The previous structure dated from the 4 th -century and was destroyed during the Second World War.

What makes Le Corbusier’s Le Petit Chateau so special?

Le Corbusier obtained such an effect by masterfully combining gently sloped vertical walls with an imposing sail-like roof. Furthermore, the curved shape of the building creates external areas which extend the interior of the chapel onto the surroundings.

When was the Ronchamp chapel built?

Together with the main chapel, the architectural complex also comprises a monastery and a gatehouse, both completed in 2011 after a design by Renzo Piano, and a nice bell tower designed by Jean Prouvé in 1975. Since 2016, the Ronchamp Chapel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.