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Origin and history

The Saint-Pierre de Chanzeaux church, located in the Maine-et-Loire department in Chemillé-en-Anjou, is a Catholic building whose history extends from the twelfth to the twentieth century. The present church, rebuilt at the end of the 19th century, replaces a 12th century building destroyed during the Vendée War (1793-1795). Only the original bell tower, housing an altar decorated with a canvas depicting the Leak in Egypt and a statue of Saint Fiacre, was preserved. This bell tower bears the stigma of the fighting of 1795, where some 20 parishioners resisted 2,000 Republican soldiers in a memorable siege.

The church stained glass windows, made in 1955 by glass painter Joseph Archepel, pay tribute to the victims of the Vendée war and to the local figures. The upper windows represent saints, often associated with Roman churches, while side windows celebrate Salesian leaders. A side chapel houses three stained glass windows dedicated to baptism, illustrating biblical and historical scenes. The building, listed as a historic monument in 1972, also preserves commemorative plaques, including one dedicated to Maurice Ragueneau, head of the bell tower insurgents.

The church architecture thus combines medieval elements (the 12th century bell tower), 17th century additions, and a major reconstruction in the late 19th and early 20th century. The stained glass windows and plates recall its role in the religious and political conflicts of the region, while stressing its anchoring in local parish and memorial life. The site remains a testament to the upheavals of the Revolution and the resilience of the Angelian communities.

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