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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The church Saint-Bénigne de Jambles, located in the department of Saône-et-Loire in Burgundy-Franche-Comté, presents a composite architecture reflecting several epochs. Part of the building, including the Romanesque choir, dates back to the 12th century, while the two Gothic-style side chapels were built in the 15th century to replace an older ensemble. The nave, on the other hand, was radically remodelled in the 18th century, before the structure and cover were completely recast in 1863. This monument thus illustrates the evolution of architectural techniques and tastes over nearly seven centuries.

The church bell tower is distinguished by its entirely stone roof, a rare feature. Inside, the ceiling nave, illuminated by a chandelier with mats decorated with crosses, leads to a Romanesque choir flanked by two dedicated chapels: one at Notre-Dame de Pitié (left), the other at Saint Anne (right). The latter, a former 15th century seigneurial chapel, preserves remarkable elements such as a hagioscope allowing the lords to attend the offices, as well as a reliquary bust of Saint Bénigne dating back to the 17th century. The 19th century stained glass windows, signed by J. Besnard, represent religious scenes related to local patron saints and prominent figures of Christianity.

Classified as a historic monument since July 9, 1943, the church of Saint-Bénigne also bears witness to the seigneurial history of Jambles. The commune, partly ecclesiastical seigneury, was first owned by the bishop of Chalon in the 13th century, then attached to the prior of the Benedictine Abbey of Saint Peter of Chalon in the 18th century. The coat of arms visible in the Sainte-Anne chapel attests to this. Today, the building remains an active Catholic place of worship, integrated into the parish of Saint Vincent des Buis of the diocese of Autun, thus perpetuating its religious vocation several centuries after its construction.

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