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Origin and history

Notre-Dame de Genêts Church is a Catholic building located in the town of Genêts, in the department of Manche, Normandy. Built in the centre of an old small port, it marked the point of convergence of the Montois roads leading to Granville, Coutances, Barfleur, Caen and Falaise before crossing the strikes. This strategic location reflects its historic importance for pilgrims and travellers crossing the bay.

From the first 11th century building, only parts of the southern crusillon remain. The church was rebuilt by Abbé Robert de Torigni (circa 1110–1186) and consecrated in 1157. The portal dates from the late 11th century, while the southern porch, in Gothic style, dates back to the 14th century. The transept, with its powerful piles of granite, and the 13th century choir, decorated with motifs reminiscent of Mont-Saint-Michel, testify to its architectural evolution.

The nave, rebuilt in the 15th century and restored in the 18th century, is opened by a flamboyant porch with a careless frame. The bell tower of the 12th century, raised in the 15th century, is capped in a building and pierced with groves. Its roof has two openwork galleries. The stained glass of the choir, although very damaged, represents scenes of Christ's life. The church and its cemetery have been listed as historical monuments since 13 June 1959.

The furniture includes an 18th-century high altar, 17th-century side altars, statues (saint Sébastien, Virgin), and a 1914-1918 memorial painting painted by Paul Lavallé in the 20th century. These elements, classified as objects, enrich its artistic and historical heritage.

The church illustrates the stylistic transitions between Romanesque, Gothic and classical restorations, while embodying the central role of religious buildings in medieval harbour towns. Its classification protects a remarkable architectural and funerary ensemble, linked to the maritime and religious history of Normandy.

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