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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The church of Saint-Étienne de Servion, located in Rouvroy-sur-Audry in the Ardennes, is an emblematic monument of Thierache's fortified religious heritage. Its fortifications, dating from the 15th century, include a square peg tower flanked by two round towers pierced with cannon guns. The north tower houses two dome vaulted casemates, while the south tower contains a screw staircase leading to the upper floors. Inside, a vaulted room with a cross of warheads and an 18th century high altar, decorated with Corinthian columns, testify to its rich architectural past.

A notable feature of the church is the presence of a Gallo-Roman stele, discovered in 1970 during works. Measuring 96 cm high, it represents a carved man and woman, suggesting a reuse of stone in construction. The building, partially classified and listed as a historic monument in 1981, now houses a cultural centre led by the association Les Compagnons de Saint-Étienne.

The church is part of the fortified church circuit of Thiérache, an architectural complex characteristic of this border region, marked by historical conflicts. Its gate, redone in 1829, and its classified bell tower-porch illustrate the successive adaptations of the building. Access from the village is through a picturesque alley, highlighting its integration into the local landscape.

Owned by the commune of Rouuvroy-sur-Audry, the church is located at 74 Rue du Sonru. Its status as a historic monument protects both the bell tower (classified) and the rest of the building (registered). Data from the Merimée database and sources such as Monumentum confirm its heritage importance in the Ardennes department and the Grand Est region.

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