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Origin and history

The collegiate Saint-Germain des Aix-d'Angillon, located in the Cher department, finds its origins in the middle of the 12th century as a castral chapel of the local castle. According to Gaspard Thaumas de la Thaumassière, it was built before 1120 by the family of Sully, then lord of Aix, under the original term of Saint Ythier (bishop of Nevers in the seventh century). In 1120, the church became a collegiate church with a chapter of six regular canons of Saint Augustine, before being reunited with that of Saint Stephen's Cathedral in Bourges by Archbishop Vulgrin. About 30 years later, the building was rebuilt, marking its transition to its current plan.

In the 13th century, the number of canons increased to twelve (1213). In 1403, John of Berry offered the collegiate relics of Saint Ythier, strengthening his prestige. The church became parish in 1678 under the name of Saint Germain, replacing the former parish church destroyed. Major changes were made: the cross tower was partially cut down, replaced by a frame bell tower, and the north arm of the transept was rebuilt, removing its apsidiole.

The 19th century saw important restorations: the western facade was rebuilt in 1858, followed by works between 1875 and 1890 (addition of a sacristy, partial reconstruction). Ranked a historic monument in 1862, the collegiate preserved remarkable furniture, including an organ of 1853 and 17th century reliquaries. Its architecture combines Romanesque elements (decorated hair, modillons) and neo-Romans additions (portail, bas-reliefs).

On October 1, 2025, the college underwent acts of vandalism (damaged movable, broken bentier), recalling the contemporary challenges of preserving the heritage. Its "benedictin" plan (a unique nave, transept, absidiole choir) and its interior decorations (false triforium, trunk dome) testify to its evolution throughout the centuries.

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