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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The church of Saint-Romain, located in Wy-dit-Joli-Village in Val-d'Oise, is a religious building whose oldest parts date back to the late 11th or early 12th century. According to tradition, it was founded around 625 by Saint Roman, native of the surrounding area, although the oldest preserved remains date from the Roman period. The building underwent numerous transformations, notably in the 13th century with the addition of a radiant Gothic chapel, then in the 15th century with a flamboyant Gothic chapel. The partial reconstruction of the seventeenth century, after the collapse of the bell tower in 1682, profoundly changed its appearance.

The consecration of the church in 1255 by Eudes Rigaud, Archbishop of Rouen, marks a key step in his history. The cult of Saint Roman, combined with a miraculous fountain, attracted pilgrims from all over the Vexin. The southern chapel, dedicated to this saint, houses a 16th century statue and a 15th century beam of glory. The church, classified as a historic monument in 1981, also preserves a 15th century cemetery cross, classified in 1946, as well as protected furniture elements.

The architecture of the church reflects its various construction phases. The nave, vaulted with warheads in the 12th century, presents capitals carved of leaves and volutes. The choir of the same period was distinguished by Corinthian-inspired capitals and adorned vault keys. The northern chapel, flamboyant Gothic, contrasts with the southern chapel, rebuilt in the seventeenth century in a more sober style. The exterior, marked by foothills and Romanesque cornices, offers a picturesque silhouette.

The church's furniture includes classified statues, such as a 16th century Virgin with the Child and a statue of Saint Roman, as well as paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries. Funeral plaques and inscriptions, including a graffiti of 1695, bear witness to local history. The cemetery cross, moved after the removal of the adjoining cemetery, and the classic 17th century retables complete this heritage.

The church of Saint-Romain, now affiliated with the parish of Averns and Marines, remains an occasional place of worship, with three annual Masses. Its history is linked to that of the French Vexin, marked by influences from Rouennais and Paris. Archaeological excavations revealed a Merovingian cemetery, confirming the site's seniority. The building, despite its alterations, retains a remarkable stylistic unit for a rural church.

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