Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The chapel Saint-Georges of Thizy, now integrated in Thizy-les-Bourgs in the Rhone, was built in the late 11th century by the monks of Charlieu at the request of the inhabitants. As an annex church of St. Peter's Abbey in Thizy, it remained unchanged until 1496, when enlargements were undertaken until 1510. Its lateral chapels house 15th, 16th and 17th century murals, as well as 12th century lapidary elements from the priory of Bourg-de-Thizy.

The partial restorations of 1948-1949, followed by a full campaign between 1988 and 1991, preserved its exceptional artistic heritage. Among the notable works are a 15th century bentier, two early 16th century stone statues (including a Virgin of the Woods), an engraved pulpit of 1550, and paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries. Two major works of the 17th century, including the Education of the Virgin, were stolen in 1979. The building, a communal property, has been listed for historical monuments since 4 March 1977.

The coat of arms and initials visible in the chapels (such as those of Pierre Tricaud, notary, or Zacharie Bered) bear witness to the links between the church and the local families in the 16th and 17th centuries. The chapel of the transept exhibits a Crucifixion dated 1556 and medieval decorative motifs (cables, damners). Its liturgical furnishings, including a limited 17th-XVIIIth tapestry and an 18th-century sculpted group, reflect its artistic evolution over seven centuries.

The history of the chapel is documented by archaeological studies, such as those of Mathieu Méras (1988) on the Annunciation or Maryse Dal Zotto (1998) on his murals. This work highlights its role in the rhônalpin religious heritage, marked by Burgundy and Lyon influences. Its inscription in the inventory of historical monuments makes it a key witness of sacred art in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.

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