La chapelle des Jésuites

The Jesuits arrived in Cambrai in 1562 to fight against the spread of Protestantism and founded a college there. Thanks to a bequest from Bishop Vanderburch, they had their chapel rebuilt between 1678 and 1694 according to the principles of the Counter-Reformation, based on plans by the architect Jean du Blocq. The architectural rhythm, the polychromy and the abundance of sculpted decoration make this building a masterpiece of Northern Baroque art. This ornamental richness is reflected in the profusion of high and low reliefs in the choir and the nave. Its decoration is completed by a series of paintings by the painter Arnoult de Vuez, representing scenes from the life of Christ.