Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The church of Saint-Lazare de Bonnay, located in the Doubs department in Burgundy-Franche-Comté, has its origins since 967, when a first church is attested on this site. This ancient place of worship bears witness to a continuing religious occupation since the Middle Ages, long before its major reconstruction in the early eighteenth century.

The reconstruction of the present building spanned between 1710 and 1715, adopting a Latin cross plan inspired by the Jesuit churches, an architectural model then in vogue. The bell tower, covered with a dome to imperial, becomes one of its distinctive elements. The work of beautification continued throughout the eighteenth century, as evidenced by the high altar installed in 1771. The interior decor is attributed to Joseph Marca, an artist whose work marks the Baroque aesthetic of the church.

Classified as a historical monument by order of 30 April 1996, the church houses remarkable furniture, partially protected as objects of historical monuments. Among these pieces are a statue of St Michael (18th century), retables and paintings (including those of St Blaise, St Isidore, or St Guérin), and a pulpit to be preached in carved wood. An older statue of Saint Anne in stone (1604) completes this ensemble. These elements illustrate the artistic and devout richness of the parish throughout the centuries.

Linked to the parish of Val de la Dame Blanche (diocese of Besançon), the church of Saint-Lazarus plays a spiritual and community role that is always active. Its architecture and history reflect the religious and artistic evolution of the Franche-Comté, from the Middle Ages to the modern era.

The sources available (Wikipedia, Monumentum) underline its heritage importance, reinforced by its precise location in Bonnay (10 Rue des Écoles) and its status as communal property. The 1996 rankings reflect its historical and architectural value, while ensuring its preservation for future generations.

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