Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The church Saint-Germain-d'Auxerre de Dourdan, dedicated to Saint Germain l'Auxerrois, finds its origins in the eighth century according to tradition, with a foundation attributed to Bertrade de Laon, mother of Charlemagne. Its current construction began in 1150 under the aegis of the Canons of Saint-Chéron, ending in the 12th century. The building, located in the city centre opposite the castle, overlooks the left bank of the Orge and is part of a medieval urban complex marked by the Place du Général-de-Gaulle and its hall.

During the Hundred Years' War, Salisbury's troops severely damaged the upper parts of the church in 1428. The restorations, carried out at the end of the 15th century, added side chapels and modified its structure. The wars of Religion will worsen his condition: the Huguenots burned the roof, broke the stained glass windows, and melted the bells to make pellets. These destructions reflect the religious tensions that torn France in the 16th century.

The 17th century marked a period of rebirth for the building. In 1641 two asymmetrical arrows were erected, followed in 1648 by the addition of a high altar offered by Anne of Austria. The chapel of the Virgin, built in 1689, extended the church by fourteen metres, bringing its total length to fifty metres. These transformations illustrate the influence of the baroque style and the royal patronage, while Marguerite-Louise d'Orléans offered in 1695 a precious frame for the relics of Saint Félicien.

The French Revolution converted the church into a " Temple of victorious reason", then into a prison until 1795, reflecting the dechristianization policy of the time. In the 19th century, Father Gérard and parishioners restored the building in less than ten years, saving an almost ruined heritage. Since 1967, the church has been classified as a historical monument, preserving its architectural heritage and remarkable elements, as an old 15th century gate inscribed in 1965.

Inside, the church is home to historical treasures: a 13th century funeral slab that served as a bridge during the Revolution, portraits of priests since 1789, and a ranked organ of 1870. The bells, some of which date from 1599 and 1778, are also classified. These elements bear witness to the rich heritage and vicissitudes of this place of worship, which is still active in the religious and cultural life of Dourdan.

External links