Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Saint-Antoine-l'Ermite d'Égletons church, located in Corrèze (Nouvelle-Aquitaine), was built between the end of the 12th and beginning of the 13th century. From this medieval period, only the bell tower-porch remains, marked by carved Romanesque capitals (foils, masks) and a dome pierced with an oculus. This partially Romanesque bell tower illustrates the architectural transition between Romanesque and Gothic styles in Limousin. Its decor and structure make it a rare testimony to the local religious architecture of the time.

The building, originally annexed to the church of Rosiers in 1318, underwent many changes. In poor condition in 1740, it was restored several times (1748-1750, 1776, 1786), with repairs to the sanctuary and the replacement of the stubble with shingles. A major reconstruction took place between 1880 and 1886 under the direction of architect Joseph-Ernest Bardon: the nave was rebuilt in ogival style, vaulted collaterals replaced the old lateral chapels, a transept was added, and the semicircular apse was enhanced. The contemporary stained glass windows, created by Blanchet and Lesage in 1957, complement this heritage.

The bell tower, classified with the entire church since 2012, retains medieval elements despite the additions of the 19th century, like the stair turret with screws. These changes reflect the evolution of liturgical and aesthetic needs, while preserving traces of the original building. The church, a communal property, remains a symbol of the religious and architectural heritage of Egletons, mixing medieval history and modern restorations.

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