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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The church of Saint-Paul de Montluçon, located in the industrial district of Ville-Gozet on the left bank of the Cher, was built between 1863 and 1869 by architect Louis-Auguste Boileau. The latter, already author of the church Saint-Eugène-Sainte-Cécile in Paris, takes over the basilical plan for this project. The building is part of the urban expansion linked to the industrialization of Montluçon, with the installation of the blast furnaces of the Saint-Jacques factory nearby. Its architecture combines traditional materials (Bourré limestone stone for walls, Volvic stone for gate) and technical innovations, such as a metal frame created by the Société de Commentry-Fourchambault.

The interior structure is distinguished by a system of vaults in metal domes supported by cast iron warheads, replacing traditional keys with glassed square light wells. This bold choice, coupled with the use of light materials for walls, reflects a desire for economy and modernity. By 1896, however, industrial pollution damaged limestone, requiring first restoration. A second repair campaign took place in 1936, but the church lost its balustrade and its original bell towers.

Ranked a historic monument in 1987, Saint Paul's Church illustrates the adaptation of religious architecture to the industrial challenges of the 19th century. Its bell tower, flanked by two side chapels, dominates Place Jean-Dormoy, the heart of the workers' district. The historic stained glass windows of the choir and apse, dating back to the 1870s-1880s, as well as the two-coloured neo-Gothic portal (Grey Volvic and white limestone), testify to its rich decor. Owned by the municipality, it remains a symbol of the industrial and religious heritage of the Allier.

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