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Origin and history

The church of Saint-Lambert de Lavannes is a Romanesque church built in the 12th century, dedicated to Notre-Dame. It is distinguished by its Latin cross architecture and its inner well, rare for this type of monument. His novel style remained intact despite the damage suffered during the First World War. The exterior and interior view of the building produces an imposing effect, emphasizing its historical and religious importance.

In the 13th century, a narthex-forming pore tower was added to the church base. It is built on a raised ground of about three metres, suggesting a desire for protection or enhancement. According to the notes of Canon Flodoart, the church was built on the site of an old 8th century building dedicated to Saint Lambert, patron saint of the parish martyred in 708. Saint Flotilde, native of Lavannes and religious in Avenay, was reportedly buried there in 942, although there was no local evidence to confirm the exact location of his burial.

Ranked as historical monuments by decree of 21 October 1911, the church suffered extensive damage during the First World War. Despite these trials, it retains remarkable stylistic purity. Its history is also linked to local religious figures, such as Saint Flotilde, whose memory is associated with the village. Today, the church remains a major architectural and spiritual testimony of the Greater East region.

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