Temple du Saint-Esprit, Protestant church in historic Besançon, France
The Temple du Saint-Esprit is a former hospital building from the 13th century that now functions as a Reformed place of worship. It displays Gothic features including ribbed vaults, tall walls, and narrow windows that are typical of medieval religious architecture.
The building was founded in 1207 as a hospital under the Order of the Holy Spirit to care for patients, travelers, and orphans. In 1842 it was transformed into a Protestant temple, marking a turning point for the Reformed community in the city.
The name reflects the theological importance of the Holy Spirit in Protestant faith and practice. Converting a former Catholic hospital into a Reformed place of worship shows how religious acceptance gradually grew in the city over time.
The temple is located on Rue Goudimel and welcomes visitors, especially during services when the interior is most accessible. The courtyard is worth exploring to see all the architectural details and understand how the space evolved over centuries.
A 15th-century tower stands in the former hospital courtyard bearing the oldest preserved sundial in the city. This stone-carved clock catches the eye of visitors exploring the quiet corners of the courtyard.
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