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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Church of Our Lady of Cholet rises on the site of a 11th century Prioral Chapel, which became parish in the 12th century. This first chapel, modified in the 15th century, escapes revolutionary destruction by serving as a store, stable and then prison. In 1812, its state of ruin led to its closure and its demolition in 1814. A third church, in the Poitevin style, was rebuilt between 1814 and 1820 under the impulse of parish priest Élie Beurier, but was quickly too small for the parish.

The construction of the present Gothic-style building inspired by the cathedrals of the North began in 1854 according to the plans of architect Alfred Tessier. The work spanned 33 years, until 1887, with the completion of the 65-metre arrows under the direction of Louis-Joseph Luçon. The church, marked by its imposing dimensions and its metal frame at the Polonceau, was listed as historical monuments in 1999. Its interior houses notable works, such as the marbles of Hippolyte Maindron or a 17th century painting, The Triumph of the Virgin.

The carillon, installed in 1885 in the north belfry, consists of four historic bells, including the bumblebee Marie-Joseph (1,500 kg) founded in 1848. The current organ, built between 1965 and 1969 by Joseph Beuchet, incorporates elements of a previous instrument by Louis Debierre (1903). Recent restorations (2016) have involved arrows, stained glass windows and foothills. The facade, unfinished, preserves uncarved reservations for Gothic details.

The Church of Notre-Dame played a central role in Cholet's religious life, especially during periods of architectural and political transition. Its history reflects local upheavals, from the Revolution — where it served as a prison — to its erection as a neo-Gothic symbol of Catholic renewal in the 19th century. Today, it remains a major urban landmark and an active heritage site, owned by the municipality.

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