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Origin and history

The Saint-Martin church of Saint-Valery-sur-Somme, located in the upper town west of the Somme department, has its origins in the 12th century, although the current building dates mainly from the 13th century. It was partially destroyed during the Hundred Years War, then burned in 1475 on the orders of Louis XI during his conflict with Charles the Temerary, Duke of Burgundy. The reconstruction lasted from the end of the 15th century to 1559, with an official consecration in 1500. The damage suffered during the French Revolution (sold furniture, melted bells, burned works) marked another critical period in its history.

The architecture of the church is distinguished by its two twin naves separated by arcades, built in stone with a pebbly dazier typical of the Picardian coast. The massive bell tower, supported by foothills, was provided with a pyramidal roof in 1786. In 1845, a brick building was added to facilitate access to the bell tower. Among the remains of the medieval church, the chapel of the baptismal fonts remains, bearing witness to its ancient past.

The church's furniture and works of art include elements classified as historical monuments, such as a silver bust-reliquary of Saint Valery (17th century), statues (Vierge, Saint Martin, Saint Valery), and 17th century ship models. The stained glass windows date back to the 19th century. The organ, whose buffet dates back to the 16th century, was restored several times, notably in 2017. A second organ, originally from the church of Saint-Pierre de Mesnières-en-Bray, was acquired and installed in the choir.

The Church of Saint Martin is a symbol of the historical and religious heritage of Picardia, reflecting the political and social upheavals of the region, from the Hundred Years War to the Revolution. Ranked a historical monument in 2022, it remains a place of worship and memory, open to visit the city of Saint-Valery-sur-Somme.

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