There are a multitude of chapels in the small parish of Bras, but this one is a masterpiece of rural Romanesque architecture in Provence. It is located on a small hill south of the town center but still in the old built-up area.

Description

The chapel was built in the 13th century and was part of the local Commandery of the Knights Templar. It is small but has a large apse calotte on the east side. The bell gable has two arches, quite common in Provence. The roof is covered with limestone slabs (lauzes).

The most beautiful shapes can be found at the openings. The gate in the north is decorated with a finely worked round arch. In the south, the only notable light opening is a small round ox-eye window.

A house is attached to the chapel to the west. There used to be an opening and a special tribune for the Commander (local head of the Templar Order) here as well.

The chapel has been restored and is now used as an exhibition space, but unfortunately it is mostly closed. However, you can ask for the key at the municipal office (see map). This is how you can see the exhibition inside.

Access by public transport

Unfortunately there are no usable bus lines that reach Bras.

Access by car

Bras is located north of the A8 motorway between Brignoles and Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume. There are departures at both locations.

Coming from St.-Maximin, you reach the town via a long right-hand bend. We pass the Cellier des Templiers wine cooperative and then the road narrows. Here, take first street on the left, it goes up to the chapel. Needless to say, it is not possible to park a car there. That's why it's better to park at the winegrowers' cooperative beforehand.

Coming from Brignoles, the route is a little longer. You first drive on the main road DN7 in the direction of St. Maximin and Tourves, but pay attention to the turnoff to the right to Bras. You get into the narrow street through the village, pass the church and follow the bend to the left. Sloping parking spaces under plane trees follow a little later on the right-hand side. It is better to park your vehicle here and continue on foot in the same direction. We then go up the first street on the right to the chapel.