Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The church of the Assumption of Mouthe, located in the Haut-Doubs, finds its origins in the 12th century with the presence of a priory who evolved into a parish. The early church, mainly made of wood, was rebuilt several times (1400, 1479, 1639, 1659) before being shaved in 1732 because of its disrepair. The construction of the present building, designed by the bisontin architect Jean-Pierre Galezot, began in 1733 and finished in 1742 despite the difficulties encountered by the entrepreneur. This new building adopts a basilical plan with a bell tower topped by an imperial dome, typical of Franche-Comté.

The church bell tower suffered two major fires in 1789 and 1833, which marked its history. Inside, the nave is supported by doric columns and pilasters, while the cul-de-four abside houses a remarkable high altar. The church has been listed as historic monuments since 16 April 2009, recognizing its heritage value. Today it belongs to the parish of Mouthe-Lac-Mont d'Or, attached to the diocese of Besançon.

The church furniture is particularly notable. Among the major pieces are carved wooden stalls dating back to 1553, classified since 1908, which come from the Abbey of Mont-Sainte-Marie and are decorated with floral perspectives and motifs. The great organ, built in 1838 by Joseph and Claude-Ignace Callinet, has been classified since 1979 and restored in 1985. Finally, the entire high altar, made in 1751 and classified in 1975, includes a altarpiece, a painting of the Assumption and statues of St. Peter and St. Paul, illustrating the artistic and religious importance of the building.

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