Ancien Carmel

Nestling in the heart of Pamiers, the Carmelite monastery, with its imposing cloister, is an architectural gem from the 17th century. It was once home to the sisters of the Carmelite order, who devoted their lives to prayer in a place cut off from the outside world.
The Carmelite convent, now uninhabited, was founded in 1648 to house the sisters of the Order of St Teresa of Avila. The chapel was built in the 18th century. The interior was designed to reflect the idea of a mystical ascent, with successive ramps, steps and landings leading up to the altar at cell level. The square tower that can be seen from the outside was originally the keep built by the Count of Foix in 1285. In 1297, the tower was given to the bishop, hence its name, the Bishop's Tower. It was given to the Carmelite order at the end of the 17th century. Both buildings were used as prisons, the tower during the Cathar period and the Carmel during the Revolution.
Free guided tours on Heritage Days and during the summer months. Outside these periods, please contact the Portes d'Ariège Pyrénées Tourist Office. Booking essential.
The monastery was listed as a historic monument on 14 August 2009.