Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The church of Notre-Dame de Lignières, located in Lignières-Sonneville in Charente, was built at the end of the 12th century and changed in the 13th century. It belonged to the ancient diocese of Saintes. Its rectangular straight bedside plan includes a single nave vaulted with ribs, carved capitals, and a cupola on pendants with transept. The western facade, typical of the 13th century, presents a gate in broken arch with three windows, framed with pilasters and surmounted by carved archatures (Vierge, shepherds, Magi kings).

The building underwent major restorations in the 15th century, including the recasting and addition of a northern chapel. Other works took place in 1835, 1858, then around 1902-1905 under the direction of architects Raymond Barbaud and Bauhain. The square bell tower dominates the transept. Ranked a Historical Monument in 1973, the church retains Romanesque (late XII) and Gothic (XIII) elements, despite its subsequent transformations.

The sculptures on the façade illustrate religious scenes (Nativity, Adoration of the Magi) and fantastic motifs (heads, animals, hooks). The lateral groined arches, decorated with diamond tips, reflect the Gothic influence. The building, a communal property, bears witness to medieval architectural developments in Poitou-Charentes, between Romanesque tradition and Gothic innovations.

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