A compelling past

In 1215 in Toulouse, Dominic of Osma founded the Order of Preachers that bears his name - the Dominican Order. At the time of the battle against the Cathar faith, this community placed dialogue and discussion at the heart of its way of life and its teachings.

As such, it played a major role in the creation of the first university of Toulouse in 1229. For many years the classes took place in the city's monasteries and convents, in particular at The Jacobins, the bell of which was used to mark the times for class.

A powerful symbol

By deciding to return the relics of St. Thomas Aquinas to his brothers, Pope Urban V sent them a clear sign. He supported the community of Preachers in its role as teachers and educators.

Today, these honoured relics are kept in the church.

An eventful destiny

During the revolution, the monastery was transformed into barracks. The cloister was partly destroyed, and stables and an infirmary were fitted out. The Jacobins did however maintain a strong identity that attracted the attention of the first inspector of Historical Monuments, Prosper Mérimée.

The renovation of the medieval monastery could therefore get underway.

Please find here the Visit Flyer of the Jacobins Convent in English

Upcoming english Guided Tour :

Sunday 14th August ; 11th September at 2:45 pm