116 avenue Henri Grand
In 1187, the first mention is made of a religious building on the site of the Couvent des Capucins. This was the Saint-Jean de Jérusalem priory.
Construction of the current convent began in 1610, with the consecration of the chapel in 1616. Later, in the mid-18th century, the convent was enlarged and restored to its present structure. During the 19th century, a secondary school was established, followed by a girls' boarding school and, finally, a theological college. During this period, the building was restored several times.
Then, during the First World War, from 1915 to 1919, the convent was used as an internment camp for gypsies expelled from Alsace. At the end of the war, the convent was bought by benefactors, and the Capuchins were authorized to move in in 1922. From 1981 to 1984, they carried out a total restoration of the convent.
Today, ten Capuchin friars live in the convent, which can be visited during the European Heritage Days.
