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The Little Chapel: Guernsey's Miniature Masterpiece

Discover Guernsey's enchanting Little Chapel: a miniature marvel of mosaic art, faith, and history in a peaceful valley setting.

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The Little Chapel in Guernsey is a tiny, ornate chapel built in 1914 by Brother Déodat, a French monk, as a miniature version of the grotto and basilica at Lourdes. Decorated with seashells, pebbles, and broken china, it's a testament to faith, creativity, and community spirit.

A brief summary to The Little Chapel

Local tips

  • The Little Chapel is open daily, but hours vary seasonally. Check the current opening times before you visit.
  • Entry to the chapel is free, but donations are welcome to help with ongoing maintenance and restoration.
  • The chapel is small and can get crowded, especially when cruise ships are in port.
  • Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the mosaic both inside and outside the chapel.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Little Chapel is accessible by bus from St Peter Port. Take the number 71 bus towards the airport. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, and the bus stops close to the chapel. A single fare costs around £2.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in St Peter Port. A taxi ride to the Little Chapel takes around 6-8 minutes and costs approximately £13-£18.

  • Driving

    If driving, follow the brown road signs to the Little Chapel, located off Les Vauxbelets road in St Andrew. There is a free car park for visitors. Parking is also available near the gift shop. From the car park, it is a short walk to the Chapel.

Unlock the Best of The Little Chapel

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Discover more about The Little Chapel

Nestled in the Les Vauxbelets valley in St. Andrew, Guernsey, the Little Chapel is a captivating and unique landmark. This tiny chapel, measuring just 16 feet by 9 feet, is adorned with a mosaic of seashells, pebbles, and broken china, creating a dazzling display of color and texture. The Little Chapel's story began in 1914 when Brother Déodat, a member of the French Order de la Salle, sought to create a miniature replica of the grotto and basilica at Lourdes. His first attempt was criticized for being too small, leading him to demolish it and build a second version. However, this second chapel was also torn down when the Bishop of Portsmouth couldn't fit through the doorway. The third and current version, which was started soon after the second demolition, stands as a testament to Brother Déodat's vision and perseverance. Local islanders and others from around the world contributed to the chapel's unique decor, donating colored china and other materials. The resulting mosaic, in the "pique-assiette" style, is a stunning example of folk art. Inside, the chapel's serene atmosphere invites quiet reflection, and visitors can explore its multi-level design. The Little Chapel is open to the public every day and relies on donations for its upkeep.

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