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Origin and history

The Collège Saint-Michel-et-Saint-Pierre de Bueil, located in Bueil-en-Touraine (Indre-et-Loire), is a remarkable religious building, classified as a historical monument in 1912. It consists of two distinct parts: to the west, the former parish church Saint Peter, rebuilt in the early 16th century to replace an 11th century building, and to the east, the collegiate church Saint Michael, founded in 1394 by the lords of Bueil as a place of family burial. This monument illustrates medieval religious architecture, with a dogive vaulted nave and a defensive bell tower with the appearance of a fortified tower.

The founding of the college in 1394 by the four brothers of the Bueil family was aimed at establishing a chapter of regular canons and creating a space dedicated to their burial. The act of foundation specifies that the closing of the choir of the original parish church was demolished to build a new altar and a choir, while preserving the old nave as a parish space. The works, financed by the lords, ended with a great architectural unity, reflecting their power and piety.

In the 15th century, the parish nave, considered too small or degraded, was rebuilt between 1480 and 1512, the date of its consecration. The bell tower, built between 1540 and 1552, has defensive features, such as machicolis and murderers, highlighting its dual religious and protective role. The French Revolution led to a period of decline, with deteriorations reported in 1808, requiring restorations in the 19th century to preserve the building.

The interior of the college reveals notable architectural elements, such as vaulted vaults in the nave, capitals carved of foliage in the choir, and murals separating the nave from the choir. The bell tower, accessible by a door adorned with triglyphs, houses an upper room initially vaulted. Among the remains of the 12th century early church, two bays in the middle hanger remain on the north wall, testifying to its ancient vocation.

The furniture includes a carved wooden baptistery dated 1521, while relics reported by the lords of Bueil once attracted pilgrims. Today, the collegiate church, now a parish church, remains a major testimony of the religious and seigneurial heritage of the Touraine, managed by the commune and opened to the visit.

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