The Chapel of the Daughters of Charity was consecrated in Paris on August 6, 1815 and dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The building was previously the medieval Hôtel de Châtillon.

St. Catherine Labouré, whom entered the Daughters of Charity Mother House on April 21, 1830 began reporting apparitions of the Virgin Mary. These apparitions soon lead to a popular new devotion throughout the Catholic Church and also the conception of the "Miraculous Medal". St. Catherine's apparitions included that of Virgin Mary appearing near a painting of St. Joseph and showing Catherine the design for the religious Medal. On one side was an image of Mary, surrounded by the prayer, "O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to you." The reverse side of the Medal bore a letter "M" surmounted by a cross and over two hearts, one encircled with a crown of thorns, and the other pierced with a sword.

It is said, the Virgin Mary instructed St. Catherine, "have a medal struck on this model. All those who carry this will receive Grace in abundance, especially if they wear the medal around their neck and say this prayer confidently, they will receive special protection from the Mother of God and abundant graces." Catherine went on to tell the story to her confessor, who at first did not believe her. Later, at her insistence, he took the information to the Archbishop of Paris who in May of 1832 authorised the Medal of the Immaculate Conception, as it was originally known. Many miracles were reported in connection with the medal and as Sister Catherine wished to keep her connection with the apparitions a secret, it was only in the months close to her death that these apparitions became generally known.

When her body was exhumed in 1933, it was found miraculously preserved. Her incorrupt body now lies on display in the chapel in a glass case. Pope Pius XII named her a Saint on July 27, 1947.

view the official website for the Chapel of the Miraculous Medal