Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Church of Our Lady of Milhac, located in Cancon in the Lot-et-Garonne, finds its origins in the 12th century under the dependence of the Abbey of La Sauve-Majeure. Ravaged by the Wars of Religion, it was rebuilt at the hinge of the 15th and 16th centuries, marking an architectural transition between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. His current plan, including a bell tower, was attested in 1682 by Bishop Jules Mascaron, confirming his structure unchanged since that time.

In the 18th century, a sacristy was added to the south flank, while the 19th century saw major interventions: repair of the tower threatening ruin (1828), construction of a western porch (mid century), renovation of the pavement (1860), and drilling of neo-Gothic windows (1897). These changes reflect the stylistic evolutions and liturgical needs of the time. Enlisted as historical monuments in 1996, the church today bears witness to nearly nine centuries of local religious and architectural history.

The monument illustrates the upheavals suffered by the Aquitaine ecclesiastical heritage, from the religious conflicts of the Renaissance to the post-revolutionary restoration campaigns. Its late registration (1996) highlights recent heritage recognition, contrasting with its seniority. Sources also mention its alternative historical designation, Millac church, perhaps reflecting a toponymic or administrative evolution.

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