The Folon chapel – The White Penitents

The Folon chapel is a design work by Jean-Michel Folon

The chapel was the seat of the fraternity named The White Penitents for more than 3 centuries. Until the 1920s, The White Penitents still carried out their work to help the poorest in the city. 

In 2008 the chapel got a brand new interior designed by the Belgian artist Jean-Michel Folon (1934-2005).

The decoration of the Folon Chapel is inspired by its history

Experience the admirable design work of Jean-Michel Folon and learn more about an artist who had strong ties to Saint-Paul de Vence for over thirty years. Folon’s decor is inspired by the chapel’s history and it truly conveys the feelings of open and outstretched hands, who were ready to give help to those in need.

Folon’s close collaboration with the village’s artisans, his stained glass designs, sculptures and fascination with light are all keys to understanding his world and his conception of art.

Folon quotes: “Connecting my name to a chapel in Saint-Paul de Vence is an expression of my love for all the inhabitants of the city, whom I have loved because they are the center of life.

The White Penitents Chapel was Jean-Michel Folon’s last design project before his death in 2005 and it is a masterpiece.

The Folon Chapel’s shop invites you further into Jean-Michel Folon’s artistic world with postcards, sketch pads, posters, etc.

Admission and opening hours

An adult ticket costs 3 euros and can be combined with a visit to the local history museum directly opposite, where you also buy tickets. In that case, the ticket costs 4 euros. See the opening hours below.

By Tommy Sverre – 2022