UTA Fall 2009 Warhol: Profile of a Sacred Space

Profile of a Sacred Space – Notre Dame du Haut

General Description:

Swiss-French architect, Le Corbusier, completed the construction of Notre Dame du Haut in 1955 in Ronchamp, France. Notre Dame du Haut translates to “Chapel of Our Lady of the Height,” but it is often referred to simply as “The Chapel at Ronchamp.” The church is a pilgrimage chapel of Roman Catholic affiliation. It is the latest chapel constructed on this particular site after a long history of churches. The most recent was destroyed during World War II, but a large amount of its stone was used in the walls of Notre Dame du Haut.

Architectural Design:

Notre Dame du Haut gets its large sculptural appearance from the thick concrete walls and the large irregularly-shaped roof enclosing the rather small chapel. Le Corbusier’s sacred space is very modern in design. In fact, some controversy was created when it was built concerning whether the modern appearance took away from the spiritual aspect of the chapel. The geometric curves and irregular shapes create the unique design of the building. The walls, roof, and floors curve downward toward the altar, emphasizing its importance during service. The concrete roof, which is supported by columns within the thick walls, slopes downward toward the back of the chapel. The dark roof also contrasts with the white-washed stone walls. Le Corbusier incorporated unique, modern windows by “punching” small openings into the thick chapel walls. The asymmetric light from the openings creates soft, indirect light within the chapel as it reflects off the white walls. Modern stain-glass windows are also a feature of the chapel.

Harmony with Nature:

As mentioned above, natural light illuminating through the small hole-like windows in the walls creates a soft, spiritual atmosphere for worshippers in the chapel. The interior follows suit, with plain pews and white-washed walls providing a sense of purity. During rainfall, water rolls off the dark, curved roof that slopes down toward the back of the chapel onto slanted concrete structures; this forms a naturally mesmerizing waterfall. The curve of the hill is accentuated as the chapel floors and walls slope downward toward the altar.

Symbolism and Sacred Objects:

The ship-like shape of Notre Dame du Haut symbolizes several spiritual aspects such as Noah’s Ark, St. Peter’s ship, and the Christian belief that they are part of God’s ship, carrying followers to salvation. The chapel also incorporates Le Corbusier’s personal love of the sea. Le Corbusier also thrived in the idea of geometrics, particularly pentagons. On the great south door of the chapel, he emphasizes two powerful geometric forms of Pythagorean and Platonic tradition. There are few, if any, sacred objects associated with the chapel as it is designed to be free of distractions and to focus on spirituality.

How it is used by Worshippers:

Because it is a pilgrimage chapel, few worshippers usually frequent the space. However, on special occasions, such as feast days, thousands of worshippers gather at Notre Dame du Haut to celebrate and worship. With this in mind, Le Corbusier built an altar and pulpit outside upon the hill. A statue of the Virgin Mary rescued from the destruction of the previous chapel is specially incorporated into a wall of the chapel, and it can be turned inward to face the worshippers inside or outward as a display to the large crowds gathering upon the hill.