Notre-Dame du Refuge, Catholic convent in Anglet, France
Notre-Dame du Refuge is a convent occupying a large estate with wooded grounds and a chapel featuring marble altars and sculptural works. The grounds also function as a center providing daily childcare services and support programs for women facing temporary hardship.
Father Louis-Edouard Cestac founded this convent in 1838 as a refuge for young women seeking to leave prostitution and rebuild their lives. The institution evolved into a religious and social center that continues to serve the community today.
The chapel displays handmade ceramic Stations of the Cross created by Sister Marie de l'Eucharistie and stained glass windows showing scenes from Jesus's life. These artworks shape the interior and reflect the community's long tradition of local craftsmanship.
The grounds are easily reached from Promenade de la Barre in Anglet and offer visitors a quiet environment to explore. The wooded areas provide shaded paths and comfortable shoes are recommended since the terrain can be uneven.
The grounds contain the tomb of Father Cestac and memorial stones documenting his contributions to the religious community. These quiet spaces tell the story of a man whose compassion shaped the founding and development of this refuge.
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