CNDC_Logo_V4_Petit_Couleur.png
  • La restauration
  • Devenez mécène
  • English Version
    • Faire un don

    Together, Let's Restore the Chapel Notre-Dame de Consolation


    Nestled on a peaceful street in Paris’ 8th arrondissement, just a few steps from the iconic Avenue des Champs‑Élysées, is a hidden treasure : a chapel standing above Rue Jean Goujon.
    This architectural gem has a fascinating history, designed by a celebrated architect at the peak of his career, and brought to life by outstanding artists and artisans.

    Even the smallest donation is precious !

    Make a donation
    NDC2.png

    A Place Steeped In History


    The “Bazar de la Charité”, a charitable fair founded in 1885, suffered a tragic fire on May 4, 1897, in Paris. A cinematograph lamp ignited ether vapors, causing the wooden structure to catch fire and killing 125 people, mostly women and children, including the Duchess of Alençon, sister of Empress Sissi. Hundreds more were injured.
    Fuite_par_la_lucarne_de_l'Hôtel-du-Palais.jpg

    A Monument to Memory and Resilience


    In response, victims’ families purchased the site where the tragedy had occurred and launched a national fundraising campaign to build a dedicated monument: the Chapel of Notre-Dame de Consolation, inaugurated in 1900 near the Petit Palais. Designed by Albert Guilbert and richly decorated, it became a national memorial and was later listed as a historic monument.

    The tragedy resonated across the Atlantic, especially in the U.S. Some American survivors, like Mrs. James Jackson and writer Viscountess d’Avenel (born in New York), escaped thanks to being close to the entrance.
    Carte postale 4.jpg

    A Major Restoration Campaign


    More than a century after its construction, the chapel’s structure has deteriorated significantly , making urgent restoration essential to preserve its integrity. The lead, zinc, and copper roofs of the two domes are in poor condition, causing leaks that have damaged the interior decoration. 

    A restoration program has been launched under the supervision of the French Ministry of Culture (DRAC), led by Heritage Architect Arnaud Vialatte de Pémille. The first phase will focus on  restoring both the large and small domes, as well as renovating the facade. This will be followed by a complete cleaning of the interior and the Stations of the Cross, ensuring the preservation of the original materials and decorative elements.
    Échafaudage petite coupole 4.JPG

    We need your support !

    The Chapel needs you about its $2.4 million investment :
    Financing ND Conso.png
    The chapel is owned by the "Mémorial du Bazar de la Charité” Association, which brings together descendants of the victims. Its upkeep is not the responsibility of the French state. To continue the project, we must raise $1.4 million relying entirely on private generosity.

    That's why we need your help!

    What does your donation cover?

    - $500 = restoration of one m² of gilding on the dome statue

    - $100 = cleaning of a facing at the base of the dome

    - $50 = mortar repair of a stone

    plans.PNG

    Support the restoration

    Make a donation