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Origin and history

The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption of Bidart, located in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques, was built or rebuilt in the sixteenth century in a defensive style, with thick walls. Its existence was attested in 1578 by a document mentioning a donation to the parish. A carved lintel dated 1610, bearing the names of the keyboards Bertran de Lafargue and Simon de Larregui, confirms the work of this period. The current building would result from the progressive enlargement of a primitive, rectangular church whose initial dimensions are still visible in the wall-clocher and the north wall.

Over the centuries, the church has undergone several changes to adapt to population growth. In the 17th century, the south wall was rebuilt to expand the nave, and a porch was added to mask the asymmetry. It was built later, while a stand, typical of the Basque parishes, was erected before being partially demolished in 1883 to install an organ. The French Revolution led to the looting of the church, transformed into a subsistence store, before a fire in the early twentieth century destroyed the galleries and ceilings, requiring major restoration.

The interior contains remarkable elements, such as a 17th century ivory crucifix, a statue of St James of Compostela (18th century), and baptismal fonts offered in 1902 by Queen Nathalie of Serbia, decorated with Byzantine paintings. The stained glass, inspired by Art Nouveau, dates from the 20th century. The central altarpiece (1747-1750) and the solid wooden altar (18th century) bear witness to the artistic evolution of the building. The church, classified as a historic monument in 2001, also preserves ancient tombstones in its porch and a capitular hall above the entrance.

Architectural transformations reflect liturgical and community needs, such as adding side galleries to accommodate the faithful. Protected objects, such as the 16th century Christ on the Cross or the ex-voto representing a morutière schooner (1900), illustrate the local maritime and religious heritage. The church's history is also marked by destruction (Rvolution, fire) followed by restorations, preserving its central role in Basque parish life.

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