The Little Chapel of Guernsey

Some of the popular attractions in Guernsey are closed for a few months during winter. I guess this makes sense as tourism activities obviously take a back seat during the season. However, this doesn't mean that a visit to Guernsey won't be enjoyable during the cold months of winter. The Little Chapel in Les Vauxbelets, one of the popular and nicest places to see, is actually open all year round and can be accessed using public transportation. The commute is easy as Bus 71 passes by the Little Chapel bus stop on Bouillon Road. Once you reach the stop, it only takes a quick two-minute walk through a narrow scenic road to reach your destination. 

a sunny winter afternoon in Guernsey

There are no admission fees for visiting the chapel but donations are more than welcome. These donations are the only source of funding for all the repairs and maintenance costs of this site.

the Little Chapel

In March 1914, Brother Deodat planned on creating a miniature version of the basilica in Lourdes France and started creating this labor of love, now more popularly known as the Little Chapel. They say this is possibly the smallest chapel in the world and I found myself starting to believe that during my visit.

the chapel's main altar

The place may be tiny but there certainly is a lot to explore. Right before the altar is a narrow stairway leading down to the other chambers of the chapel.

the narrow stairway leading to the other chambers

The roof, pillars, walls and ceilings are all covered in broken china, pebbles and shells of various shapes, sizes and colours. Some of the pieces adorning the walls came from various contributors around the world. Many were donated when it became popular after the chapel was featured in the Daily Mirror newspaper. Clearly, this place is not just a labor of love but also a wonderful work of art.  One simply cannot help but marvel at the artistic appeal and uniqueness of the Little Chapel, Guernsey's own lovely gem.