Les Ursulines, Montpellier

Les Ursulines in Montpellier is a historic building with a complex and varied past. Originally constructed in 1641 under the direction of architect Jean Bonnassier, the edifice was designed as a nunnery to support the efforts of the Catholic Church during the religious reconquest of the city after the Wars of Religion. The convent, founded by six nuns from the Sainte-Ursule order of Pézenas, served as a place for the education of young girls, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds.

Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, the convent's role as an educational institution was strengthened and supported by various bishops. However, internal conflicts and shifting religious policies, such as the influence of Jansenism, brought changes to the nuns' activities and occupancy.

The French Revolution brought a drastic transformation to Les Ursulines. The convent was closed, and the building was repurposed as a women's prison-a role it would maintain on and off until 1934. During the 19th century and into the World War II era, the building shifted between being a prison and a barracks, even serving as a detention and interrogation center for the Gestapo during the German occupation.

After the war, the building continued to house military offices until the mid-1980s. In 1980, the city of Montpellier announced its plans to acquire the site, but it wasn't until 1988 that the final deed of purchase was completed. The building, initially slated for demolition, was preserved and recognized for its historical value, with its facades and roofs on several streets registered as historic monuments in 1991.

Today, Les Ursulines has been revitalized as a cultural hub. It serves as the headquarters of the National Choreographic Center of Montpellier and hosts a dance studio and several offices connected to Montpellier Dance. Numerous choreographic events are held in this historic space, breathing new life into a structure that has witnessed centuries of religious, military, and now artistic activity.