Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The church of Saint-Étienne du Mail de Pujols, located in the Lot-et-Garonne department in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, is a religious building dating back to the thirteenth century. It was thoroughly redesigned in the 15th and 16th centuries, with additions such as a polygonal bedside and a bell tower-wall typical of regional architecture. His heritage interest lies in his painted decoration from the beginning of the sixteenth century, partially clear, including a representation of the Last Judgment associated with the Seven Capital Sins in the nave, as well as a Supper in a side chapel. A sacristy was added in the 18th century, marking a later evolution of the building.

The church was first mentioned in 1271, and its major reconstruction took place in the late 15th or early 16th century. Several chapels were added between the 16th and 17th centuries, including a northern chapel and two southern chapels built in a single countryside. The vaults were partially rebuilt in 1897 by the contractor Dellaux, using hollow bricks. The building was listed as a historic monument in 1994 (for the floor and basement of the adjoining cemetery) and was classified in 1996, recognizing its exceptional heritage value.

Property shared between an association and the commune of Pujols, the church Saint-Étienne is also distinguished by its proximity to an ancient site, underlined by the research of Abbé Gerbeau. Its architecture thus blends medieval, reborn and modern elements, reflecting almost eight centuries of religious and local history. The murals, although partially preserved, offer a rare testimony of Renaissance sacred art in Aquitaine.

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