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Origin and history

The Church of Notre-Dame-de-l'Assumption of Cadalen, built in the 12th century, was a major religious building when Cadalen served as the capital of the Lower Land of the Albigeois. In Romanesque style, it was characterized by a rectangular plane with a semicircular apse. Its historical importance reflected the central role of the city in the region at that time.

In the 19th century, the construction of a new nearby church led to the decommissioning of the original building. The latter was then reused as a town hall and school, before suffering a partial collapse in 1951, when its bell tower collapsed on the nave. Today, only the apse remains, the southern side portal adorned with a modillon cornice and a chrism, as well as four capitals carved in the choir.

The remains, protected by a classification as historical monuments since 1927, have been the subject of rehabilitation projects. A study to transform the building into a media library was abandoned after two years of archaeological research. Currently, efforts are focused on preserving the most remarkable elements, under the supervision of the Regional Directorate of Cultural Affairs (DRAC).

The capitals still visible illustrate symbolic scenes, including Ascension, a fox strangling a cock, Tentation, and the punishment of the usurer. These artistic details testify to the cultural and religious importance of the building during the Romanesque period. The south gate, with its carved decoration, remains one of the most significant elements of today's ruins.

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