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Origin and history

Saint Lawrence Church in Puylaurent is a Roman Catholic church located in La Bastide-Puylaurent, Lozère department, Occitanie region. Built in the 12th century, it initially depended on the Benedictine priory of Prévanche. Its architecture is characterized by a unique nave vaulted in cradle, divided into two spans, and an apse adorned with arcatures resting on columns with carved capitals (foliages, figures).

The building presents a south gate in the middle of the hangar, consisting of three windows, as well as a side chapel vaulted with warheads, probably added in the 16th century. A two-bay bell tower overlooks the western wall. The church was listed as historical monuments by order of 24 June 1976. Its history is linked to local development, notably with the arrival of the train at La Bastide, which led to the relocation of the capital from Puylaurent.

Inside, the single nave is separated by a doubleau resting on pilasters, probably replacing old columns. The apse, vaulted in cul-de-four, is decorated with six arches with adorned capitals. A modern sacristy completes the whole. The church now belongs to the municipality of La Bastide-Puylaurent and remains a testimony of medieval religious architecture in Gevaudan.

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