Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The old church of Saint Martin of Coussay-les-Bois, dated from the 11th century, is the first church of the village. It is characterized by an original bell tower supported by two cribs in the middle of the hangar, typical of Romanesque architecture. Inside, capitals adorned with foliage and palmettes recall the patterns of the west gate, while the back nave features a dogid vault with ivy, some finished with monsters' mouths. A capital, decorated with vine leaves and clusters, illustrates the iconographic richness of the building.

The chapel, classified as a Historical Monument by decree of 14 April 1951, now belongs to the commune. Its state of preservation and its sculptural details make it a remarkable example of poitevin Romanesque art, although its exact location (1 Rue de Clamart) is judged to be of satisfactory a priori accuracy (note 6/10). No information is available on its current accessibility or contemporary uses (visits, events).

Protected elements include the entire old church, highlighting its heritage importance. Available sources (Monumentum, Merimée base) confirm its listing as Historical Monuments, but do not specify the original sponsors or the detailed stages of its construction, outside the 11th century.

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