Timeline

Heritage classified

Origin and history

The church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Dercé, classified as a Historic Monument, has a composite architecture reflecting two major periods. The unique nave, dating from the 12th century, preserves capitals carved from stylized foliage, typical of Poitevin Romanesque art. Its initial spans, covered by a ceiling, contrast with subsequent additions.

In the 16th century, the transept and the flat bedside choir were built, introducing arches on cross-sections of prismatic mouluration warheads, characteristic of late Gothic. The bell tower, backed by the south facade, completes this ensemble. Four murals (two from the 16th century and two from the 17th century) remain, testifying to the decorative richness of the building.

The church was listed in the Inventory of Historic Monuments by order of 4 May 1943. A communal property, it embodies the rural religious heritage of the former Poitou-Charentes region, now integrated into New Aquitaine. Its exact address, 6 Rue Sainte-Radegonde, and its Insee code (86093) confirm its anchoring in the Department of Vienna.

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