Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The chapel of the Good Savior, located in Étienville (with a part on Picauville), was rebuilt in the 3rd quarter of the 20th century to replace the building destroyed on June 11, 1944. The religious community of the Good Saviour entrusted the project to architect René Levavasseur, associated with Lebreton. Their innovative design adopts a frame plan, where six branches converge towards a central sanctuary surmounted by an openworked concrete lantern tower. The clean aesthetic contrasts with the massive bell tower, advanced on the west gallery of the cloister. Access to the choir of the nuns is through an illuminated staircase of honour, while the wrought irons of the doors and ramp, signed Raymond Subes (Paris workshop), add an artistic touch.

The interior and exterior arrangement reflects a strong religious symbol, with a communion grid delimiting the sanctuary. The chapel also includes works by renowned artists: sculptor Etienne Rebuffet, painter-glass Auguste Labouret, and ironmaker Raymond Subes, whose creations (rape, doors) combine functionality and elegance. Classified as a Historical Monument by order of 3 March 2006, it includes the entire chapel and its layout. Its official address (base Mérimée) is located in Picauville (50250), although its main entrance is in Étienville (50360), reflecting its shared territorial anchor.

The reconstruction is part of a post-Second World War context, where Normandy, heavily affected by the 1944 bombings, sees the emergence of architectural projects combining modernity and memory. The choice of a frame plan, a Eucharistic symbol, and the use of materials such as concrete (lantern tower) or wrought iron (Subes), illustrate this desire for renewal. The chapel, both a place of worship and a work of total art, also bears witness to the role of religious communities in preserving the spiritual and artistic heritage after the war.

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