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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Troglodyte Chapel of the Echeneau is a religious monument dug into the rock, located in Vouvray, Indre-et-Loire. Dating from the 18th century, it is distinguished by its rectangular room carved in the rock, accessible by a monumental entrance adorned with a portico in relief. Inside, a richly carved altarpiece contrasts with the simplicity of stone walls, reflecting the religious crafts of the time.

The building was listed as historic monuments on November 7, 1966, recognizing its heritage value. The wooden door, made up of five panels, and decorative elements such as flat pilasters and acanthe leaf volutes underline its artistic character. The chapel illustrates the adaptation of religious practices to local geological constraints, typical of troglodytic regions.

Its exact location, 11 Allée de l'Écheneau, and its registration in the general inventory (reference Cadastre BM 64) confirm its anchoring in the tourism heritage. Although the sources do not mention any specific sponsors or events related to its construction, its architecture and decor make it a rare testimony of the 18th century rock chapels in the Centre-Val de Loire.

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