Built in the heart of the Aravis mountains, the Carmel of Reposoir calls for contemplation. The magnificence of the place overwhelms us with emotions and soothes us. Far from the tumult of the valley, a Carmelite community here made a vow of poverty and silence. Discover this sacred place, rocked by suspended time.
History of the Chartreuse du Reposoir
The monk John of Spain, accompanied by six monks settled in the valley of Béol in 1151.
By discovering this valley, the monks finding the place so well suited to the requirements of the Chatreux order, changed its old name from Béol to that of Reposoir.
It is therefore a question of conquering a nourishing land on the forest of the valley of Béol to make it a Rest of God.
John of Spain presents himself there as an authentic son of Saint Bruno (founder of the Order of
Chartreux): he wanted to found for his brothers a real Chartreuse facing the Aravis range.
Then came the French Revolution and the departure of the Carthusians. They did not return until fifty years later to be definitively expelled in 1901. The Chartreuse du Reposoir was then
put on sale around 1920.
Thirty years after the departure of the Carthusians, on October 15, 1932, about twenty Carmelites began their life in closing, taking over from the Carthusian monks by their life of prayer in
solution.
Life in Carmel today
The monastery is home to about fifteen Carmelites who have left everything to live a deep intimacy with God in solitude and silence. They took vows of poverty, chastity and obedience.
Their life is devoted to prayer, liturgy, meditation and the various tasks of the day.
They meditate on the Word of God and intercede for the Church and the world.
A heritage treasure
The Chartreuse du Reposoir, now occupied by the Carmelite community of Reposoir, is a true heritage gem nestled in the heart of the Haute-Savoie mountains. This iconic site, steeped in history and set in an exceptional natural environment, is one of the must-see places in our region. To showcase this remarkable heritage and allow visitors to leave with a unique souvenir, the intercommunal tourist office created a Chartreuse du Reposoir Souvenir Medal in 2020, in collaboration with the Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint) and with the agreement of the Carmelite community.
This Monnaie de Paris souvenir medal is a unique memento of your visit to the Chartreuse du Reposoir. It allows you to preserve a memory of this exceptional historical and spiritual site, nestled in the heart of the Arve Valley and the mountains of Haute-Savoie.
Chartreuse opening hours
Every day from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 14:30 p.m. to 18:30 p.m. (17:30 p.m. in winter).
Masses
- Monday to Saturday at 8:30 a.m.
- Every Sunday at 9 p.m.
- Christmas and Easter at 9:30 a.m.
- Non-working solemnities at 9 a.m. (January 1, Ascension Thursday, July 16, August 15 and November 1).