Chapelle de la Trinité (Trinity Chapel), Lyon

Many structures are often lauded as "a pearl" or "a gem," and in most instances, such descriptions tend to be exaggerated. However, when it comes to the Trinity Chapel (Chapelle de la Trinité), such praise is entirely justified. This chapel is undeniably exquisite.

Constructed in 1622 by the architect Martellange in the Baroque style, the Chapelle de la Trinité is situated at the heart of the Grand Collège. This educational institution had been under the ownership of Jesuit priests since 1567, and the chapel was intended for the benefit of its students.

Keeping the educational and spiritual aspects in mind, the chapel's ornamentation was meticulously designed. Adorned in Carrare marble, it features an array of statues and trompe-l'oeil frescoes. Since its inception, students have left their signatures and small drawings atop the balustrade, bearing the names of many illustrious individuals from the city, such as Leymarie and Flacheron.

The chapel's layout is elegantly straightforward, with a central nave that lacks any projecting transept, along with ten interconnected side chapels. Behind the main altar, a small entrance in the semi-circular apse leads to a vaulted corridor that leads to the choir.

Despite its classification as a historical monument in 1939, the chapel fell into neglect and was stripped of its furnishings. For several years, it served as a gymnasium and venue for various demonstrations. In the 1990s, a renovation project was initiated under the guidance of Mortamet and Repellin. The chapel was reopened to the public in 2008 and now hosts concerts of Baroque music and other events.