Pénitents Gris d'Avignon / Chapelle Sainte Croix

The Grey Penitents of Avignon find their origins in a pivotal moment of medieval history, in 1226, marked by the Albigensian War. At that time, Avignon, a fervent defender of the Albigensian cause, suffered a intense three-month siege which compelled it to surrender to the King of France, Louis VIII. On September 14, during the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, Louis VIII, dressed in a sack of ash colour, led a solemn procession, accompanied by the legate cardinal, 60 bishops, French barons and a crowd of people from Avignon. Their destination: the chapel of the Holy Cross, located outside the walls, where they prayed for the Holy Sacrament, marking a strong opposition to the Albigensian heresy which denied the Real Presence.

To maintain this Eucharistic devotion, Louis VIII established a brotherhood dedicated to the permanent adoration of the Most Holy Sacrament, thus sealing the creation of the Devout and Royal Company of the Grey Penitents of Avignon. This group, dressed in gray robes, became a symbol of piety and devotion in the city, embodying the commitment of the faithful towards the Catholic faith. The Grey Penitents played a significant role in the religious and community life of Avignon, dedicating themselves to prayer, the redemption of souls and the aid to the most needy.