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Origin and history

Saint-Jean-l'Évangéliste de Barizey, in the department of Saône-et-Loire, is a Catholic building built in the 4th quarter of the 18th century. Its origin dates back to the decision of the inhabitants of Barizey to form an independent community, distinct from Saint-Jean-de-Vaux. The official application, filed on October 1, 1769, was validated by a royal ordinance in 1771, and approved by the bishop of Chalon on March 9, 1773. This context marks the beginning of an ambitious architectural project for this small Burgundy town.

The design of the church was entrusted to Émiland Gauthey, chief engineer of the states of Burgundy, who presented the plans and estimate on 24 July 1778. The works, carried out under his direction, stowed from 1780 to 1786, also including the construction of the adjacent presbytery. The inauguration took place on 10 May 1786, sealing the outcome of this community project. The architecture of the building is distinguished by its octagonal exterior plan, its vaulted nave in dome intended for 200 faithful, and a bell tower-porch pierced with an oculus and bays in the middle of the skin.

The church, classified as a historical monument in 1976, has undergone significant restorations since 1992, beginning with the bell tower. The work then involved the limestone lauze roofing and the consolidation of the dome, although some finishes remain pending. The original bell, named in 1787 but damaged, was recast in 1851 by the founders Dunand and Cochois de Lons-le-Saunier. Today, the building remains an active place of worship, integrated into the parish of Saint-Symphorien-en-Côte-Chalonnaise, reflecting the religious and heritage vitality of the region.

The presbytery, which became a communal house, also benefited from restorations financed by the municipality. This dual use illustrates the adaptation of historic buildings to contemporary needs, while preserving their heritage. The church of Barizey, with its history linked to community autonomy and remarkable architecture, embodies a religious, social and architectural heritage of Burgundy-Franche-Comté.

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