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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Saint-Cyprien church in Poitiers was built between 1963 and 1965 under the direction of architects Marcel Baudouin and Jacques Lafdaughtere, in collaboration with the Father of La Rochebrochard. Dedicated to the three cities in the south of Poitiers, it could accommodate up to 1,000 parishioners, including 900 seats. Its modern architecture combines rubble facades, a concrete frame and a metal frame, with a trapezoidal plane articulating distinct modules such as a side bell tower and a patronry room under the choir.

The building is distinguished by its interior with inverted slopes and its raw concrete floor inclined towards the choir. Natural lighting comes from the space between the low ceiling and the walls. The nave is separated from the sacristy and the weekly chapel by a landing at the bedside. The ensemble, marked by a sober and functional aesthetic, reflects the liturgical and community needs of the post-war period, while integrating versatile spaces such as the patronage room.

Classified as a Historical Monument by order of 27 February 2002, the church is now owned by the municipality of Poitiers. Its inscription bears witness to its architectural and social importance in the 20th century urban landscape, combining constructive modernity and adaptation to the religious practices of the time. The accuracy of its location is considered satisfactory a priori (note 7/10), and it remains a notable example of post-war religious architecture in New Aquitaine.

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