Chapelle du Méjan

The church of Saint-Martin du Méjan in Arles, also known as the Chapelle du Méjan, is a former religious building in the Méjan district, near the Rhône. It was constructed and rebuilt between the 9th and 17th centuries. It was a parish church prior to the French Revolution, but also served as a chapel for the neighbouring seminary and, due to its proximity to the river, as a burial ground for victims of drowning. An external cemetery was proposed in the 18th century on sanitary grounds, but the plans were rejected by the Dominicans, who had a well nearby. During the revolution, the church was deconsecrated and sold as a national asset. It was used for a variety of purposes afterwards and for some time was even a wool store for the association of merino sheep farmers. The building is now secular and is home to the Association du Méjan, which has held a variety of cultural events, including concerts, readings, exhibitions and meet-and-greets, for 40 years. Today it is a must-visit for Arles residents and tourists alike.