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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Basilica Sainte-Maxellende de Caudry is a Catholic religious building built between 1887 and 1890 according to the plans of the Lille architect Louis Marie Cordonnier. In a neo-Gothic style, it illustrates the importance of the cult dedicated to Saint Maxellende, a young Caudresian murdered in the 7th century by her pretender Harduin of Amerval. This place, dedicated to blind and visually impaired pilgrims, was elevated to the rank of minor basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1991.

The basilica is 72 metres long and its bell tower peaks at 75 metres, housing a carillon of three bells named Vox Dei, Pax and Maxellende. Inside, the nave is 20 metres high, illuminated by two roses of 4,600 pieces of glass (1921). The choir houses an award-winning marble and mosaic master altar, while Charles Lorin's stained glass (1905-1940) traces the life of the saint. The 14th century shawl, classified in 1896, and the entire building, registered in 2019, bear witness to its exceptional heritage.

The organ, the work of Charles Mutin (1913), and the lateral chapels — dedicated to Notre-Dame du Rosaire and Saint Maxellende — complete this architectural ensemble. The basilica, owned by the commune, is located 17-19 rue Roger Salengro in Caudry (Northern Department, Hauts-de-France region). Its history combines local devotion, sacred art and recent heritage recognition.

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