Picture a semi-subterranean building, almost enigmatic in appearance, constructed in the 18th century to preserve... natural ice! Before the advent of modern refrigeration, people relied on ice cellars — essentially early, pre-industrial refrigerators — to store ice, keep food fresh, or whip up sorbets and cool drinks during the hot summer months.
In Frédéric-Pic Park, in Vanves (92), there were originally three structures, all situated within the grounds of the Duchess of Mortemart. Today, only two remain, and one has taken on a new spiritual significance: it was transformed into a chapel in the 19th century when doctors Voisin and Falret established a well-known health clinic there. As a result, we are faced with a unique building that is both technological and sacred: a refrigerated chapel.
Over the years, these unique structures have suffered from neglect: pollution, water infiltration, and aging materials have weakened the walls, roofs, and partially underground volumes. Due to a lack of maintenance, they have now been closed to the public for several years, despite standing as a testament to more than three centuries of local history.
The City of Vanves has therefore decided to initiate a major aimed at:
Securing and strengthening the buildings,
Restoring the roofs, lanterns, stained glass windows, and facades,
Reinstating the semi-buried volumes to their original form,
and preparing for public access in comfortable conditions.
This initiative also aims to enhance the local heritage, a goal highlighted by the "Regional Heritage Interest" label awarded to the glacières and chapel complex by the Île-de-France Region. Ultimately, the plan is to offer visitors guided tours that delve into the history of the glacières, alongside themed lectures or exhibitions, workshops for children, as well as intimate concerts in the renovated chapel. Stay tuned for updates!
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Location
Frederic-Pic Park
2 Rue Falret
92170 Vanves
Official website
www.vanves.fr















