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Origin and history

The Saint-Jean de Cornac church, located in Saint-Paul-d'Espis, was originally a priory attached to the abbey of Moissac. Its construction spans between the second half of the 14th century and the 16th century, with architectural traces marked by these two periods. The building preserves carved capitals and arches in the choir, resting on adorned caps. A major reconstruction took place in the early 16th century, as evidenced by the vault key of the choir dated 1526.

In 1709, a span of the nave was destroyed, according to Gayne's writings. The façade and vault were rebuilt in 1854 by the architect Saint Phard, while the bell tower, damaged by a fire, was rebuilt in 1876. A general restoration was carried out in 1955. The church also houses a monumental fireplace dated 1545, from the old leprosy of Malause, as well as stained glass windows signed Henri L.V. Gesta (Toulouse, 1894).

Classified as a Historical Monument by decree of 23 April 1979, the church now belongs to the commune of Saint-Paul-d'Espis. Its history reflects the architectural and religious evolutions of the region, from its role as a medieval priory to its modern transformations. The protected elements include the capitals, the ogif arches, and the 16th century chimney, testimonies of its rich and varied past.

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