Chapel and cemetery in Levens damaged by fires
The commune of Levens in the Alpes-Maritimes region of southeastern France experienced a series of deliberate fires targeting sacred sites. The Chapelle des Pénitents Noirs and the adjacent cemetery were both affected, with fires being started on the altar cloths in the chapel and in plastic flower pots in front of several graves. These acts of vandalism have left the local community in shock and mourning, particularly as some of the incidents occurred during visits to the cemetery on Mother's Day.
While the major of Levens, Antoine Véran, stated that "this is no anti-religious act" but simply "gratuitous wickedness", Father François Banvillet, the parish priest, emphasised the potential severity of the situation, noting that there is a recumbent effigy beneath the altar and that the smoke produced was toxic. Describing the act as 'irresponsible', he acknowledged that the outcome could have been far worse.
In the nearby cemetery, multiple graves were targeted. Initially, four graves were affected, but by the weekend, this number had risen to nine. Plastic flower pots placed in front of the graves were set alight, causing damage and distress to families visiting their loved ones. The timing of these incidents, which coincided with Mother's Day, added to the community's anguish.
Father Banvillet mentioned that the chapel is temporarily closed due to safety concerns and that a volunteer had expressed fear following the incidents. However, he affirmed the community's resilience, stating: 'We will not give in; we will reopen.'
The gendarmerie has launched an investigation into the incidents, aiming to uncover the perpetrators and their motives. Levens, a town with twelve religious buildings, has been deeply affected by these events, which have disrupted the tranquillity and sanctity of its sacred spaces.
Source: RCF
Image: X