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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The church of Saint-Hippolyte de Brion-sur-Ource, located in the department of Côte-d-Or, finds its origins at least in the early Middle Ages, as evidenced by the sarcophagi discovered around the site. It was built in the 15th century on the site of an ancient castral chapel dedicated to Saint Hippolyte, venerated in the diocese of Langres since the 9th century. The choir, side chapels and transept date back to the 16th century, while the nave was redesigned and the west gate added in 1629. The more recent bell tower was erected in the 19th century.

The building features an elongated plane with a single dogive vaulted nave, a three-bayed polygonal bedside, and a polygonal arrow bell tower at the transept cross-section. The construction mixes stone and rubble, covered with flat tiles, stones and slates. A semi-outwork staircase completes the architectural ensemble. The church houses remarkable furniture, including 16th-15th century statues, reliquaries, and 17th-century baptismal fonts.

Three elements of the furniture are classified as Historical Monuments: a statue of Saint Hippolyte (XVIth century, classified in 1976), a Virgin with the Child in 16th century polychrome stone (classified in 1907), and a canvas depicting Saint Jerome (circa 1600, classified in 1972). These pieces are partly from the Abbey of Cordeliers of Châtillon-sur-Seine. The church itself has been included in the inventory of Historic Monuments since 1988.

The site reflects the architectural and religious evolution of the region, marked by successive redevelopments. The front door, dated 1628 and signed by Ypolite Martin, illustrates the local crafts of the time. The church, owned by the commune, remains a testimony of Burgundy Christian heritage, mixing medieval heritage and Renaissance influences.

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