Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The church of Sainte-Madeleine du Pouzin, located in the department of Ardèche, was destroyed on 6 August 1944 during a bombardment that razed much of the city, killing 44 people. Among them, a person was found under the rubble of the bell tower three months later. This tragedy deeply marked the local community, already affected by the violence of the Second World War.

The reconstruction of the church, between 1955 and 1958, was entrusted to architect Maurice Biny, who opted for a contemporary architecture made of country stones. The bell tower, entirely concrete, and the asymmetric nave create a unique atmosphere, guiding the look towards the choir. The stained glass, works of François Chapuis, and sculptures, such as that of Sainte Madeleine by André Deluol, enrich the building with an artistic and symbolic dimension.

The church was labeled "Twentieth Century Heritage" in 2003, recognizing its architectural and historical value. It also became the centre of the "inter-paroisial ensemble of Pouzin" in 1994, then became part of the parish "Saint-François d'Ouvèze-Payre" in 2003, before joining the parish "Saint-Nicolas du Rhône" in 2022. These developments reflect the transformations of local ecclesiastical structures.

Among the remarkable elements are a bell of 1750 classified as a historical monument, as well as a stone altar of Chomérac and a tabernacle decorated with the letters "IHS". The stained glass windows illustrate the joyful, painful and glorious mysteries, while the polychrome Virgin of Philippe Kaeppelin and the bas-relief of Sainte Madeleine add to the heritage richness of the place.

The church also hosts important events, such as the funeral of Lilian Camberabero in 2016. Its history, linked to both the destruction of war and the architectural renaissance, makes it a symbol of resilience for the Pouzin community.

External links