Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The church Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul de Passy finds its origins in a first mention written in 1012, attesting to a Romanesque building. This early church was rebuilt in 1486, and its choir, still visible today, is the last vestige of this medieval period. Major transformations took place between 1680 and 1781, when the inhabitants of Haut-Faucigny undertook to rebuild their churches in ruins. The present building, of Baroque style, was consecrated in 1701, marking a break with medieval architecture while retaining ancient elements.

In the seventeenth century, Gallo-Roman steles dedicated to the god Mars, probably discovered on the Gures mountain or from a temple located in the hamlet of the Outards, are sealed under the porch of the church. These pagan remains, integrated into the Christian building, illustrate the superposition of cults throughout the centuries. Among them, two steles and one altar are classified as historical monuments since the early twentieth century, although two stone altars were declassified in 1931. These objects testify to the ancient occupation of the region and the reuse of materials in religious construction.

The renovations continued in the 19th century, with a notable modification of the bell tower in 1869, partially altering its original appearance. Inside, the church houses protected furniture, including an 18th century pulpit and organ buffet, classified in 1936, as well as wooden statues of Saints James and Michael, protected since 1984. A bentier of 1716 completed this ensemble, reflecting the artistic and religious heritage of the Baroque Savoy. These elements underline the central role of the church in the community and spiritual life of Passy, from the Middle Ages to modern times.

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