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Heritage classified

Origin and history

The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption of Geay, sometimes confused with the Church of St.Vivien, is an emblematic building of the Romanesque style. Built in the 12th century, it is distinguished by its typical architecture of the region, with a unique nave and a richly decorated apse. Its bell tower, of octagonal shape, rests on a massive square base, illustrating the construction techniques of the time.

The interior of the church is characterized by a unique nave divided into four spans, accessible by a descending staircase. The apse, the most remarkable part, is adorned with three floors of arches in the middle of the hanger, separated by foothills columns. These decorative elements reflect the artistic and religious influence of Saintonge in the Middle Ages.

The steeple, short and octagonal, is reinforced by columns with bare capitals at angles, while its broken arch openings recall the stylistic evolutions of the Romanesque period. The church was classified as historic monuments on January 29, 1907, recognizing its heritage and architectural value.

Located in the department of Charente-Maritime, New Aquitaine, this church bears witness to the religious and cultural history of Saintonge. Its classification among historical monuments makes it a preserved place, representative of the Romanesque heritage of the region.

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