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Origin and history

Saint-Béat d'Épône Church is a Romanesque parish church built between the 2nd half of the 11th century and the 12th century, with subsequent modifications in the 13th and 16th centuries. Located in the commune of Epône (Yvelines), it is distinguished by its octagonal tower bell tower topped by a rare stone arrow. Inside, the curved nave in the shape of an inverted hull bears witness to its medieval architecture. According to tradition, the arrow was built by Agnes de Montfort, wife of Galéran II de Meulan, like sixteen other bell towers of the Vexin and the Pincerais.

The church is mentioned as early as 982 under the name of Saint Beat, then in a donation to the chapter of Notre-Dame de Paris in 984. It underwent extensive restorations between 1865 and 1871, including the reconstruction of the arrow (mounting up and uphill stone by stone), as well as an interior renovation in 2003-2004. The bell tower and door under the porch were classified as Historic Monuments in 1909, followed by the rest of the building in 1988. The church is home to remarkable elements, such as the bell "Beate" (1597), survived by the Revolution and classified in 1905, or the funeral slabs of the Thibault (1544-1545), also protected.

The furniture includes an Italian painting of the 17th century (La Rencontres d'Éliezer et Rébecca), attributed to Giovanni Andrea de Ferrari, as well as 17th century baptismal fonts, an eighteenth century pulpit to preach, and an organ of Cavaillé-Coll. These elements reflect the additions and enrichments of the church over the centuries, while maintaining its original Romanesque character. Two other bells, offered in 1901 by the mayor and a local owner, complete the sound heritage of the building.

The church of Saint-Béat illustrates the architectural and religious evolution of the Pion, from its medieval foundation to its modern restorations. Its classification and its protected objects make it a privileged witness of local history, linked both to the lords of Meulan and to parish life throughout the ages.

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