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Origin and history

The church of Saint-Laurent d'Arbent, located in the Ain department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, is a historic monument registered since 7 June 1988. It belongs to the commune and is distinguished by an architecture combining 15th century elements and 19th century restorations. Its plan includes a nave of three arches of warheads, a single-span choir and a five-sided apse, while its bell tower, built from 1820, is attached to the south facade. The west façade has a broken arched portal topped by a larmier and a six-lobed rose, characteristic of late Gothic.

The church's history dates back to the second half of the 16th century, with a first chapel dedicated to Notre-Dame mentioned as early as 1365 in a legacy of Stephen of Bochie. Although its current construction is attributed without formal evidence to Cardinal Louis Aleman (1381-1450), bishop of Arles, it is likely dated from the first half of the 15th century. A Hexagonal benefactor bearing the date of 1502, offered by Perceval du Planet, the first priest of Arbent, attests to his seniority. The building underwent several transformations, notably after a fire in 1744 and major works in the 19th century, including the reconstruction of the bell tower (1820-1821), the installation of stalls in 1845, and the replacement of stained glass windows and the laying of the bedside in 1857.

In the 17th century, the church had eight side chapels, as noted by Monsignor de Marquemont in 1631. After damage caused by a fire in 1744, repairs were undertaken, especially on the threatening façade, following the visit of the bishop of Saint-Claude in 1762. The interventions of the 19th century marked its present appearance, with partial reconstruction and stylistic additions, while preserving medieval elements such as the gate and decors of the north facade. Today, the church remains a major architectural and historical testimony for the municipality of Arbent.

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