Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The church of Saint-Martin de Biscarrosse, located in the Landes department in New Aquitaine, is a stage on the way to Soulac du chemin de Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle. Built in the 15th century, it serves as a gathering place for the local Catholic community and is dedicated to Martin de Tours, one of Christendom's most venerated saints. Its architecture combines three typical materials: briquette, white-cut stone and garluche, a regional stone. At the beginning of the 20th century, major changes changed its bell tower and enlarged the lateral naves.

Inside, five adorned arch keys represent Christ surrounded by the symbols of the four evangelists (the man for Matthew, the lion for Mark, the bull for Luke and the eagle for John). A primitive shield of Biscarrosse, decorated with squirrels, a boar and a sheep, as well as angels presenting a crown, decorates the central aisle. The choir houses a double star shield fleur-de-lys, while the lower side depicts Saint Michel terrorizing the dragon and effigy of a local lord.

The windows of the lateral naves depict biblical and hagiographic scenes, such as Saint Cecile with his organ, Saint Jeanne d'Arc, or the Annunciation. Those of the choir recount the life of Saint Joseph, Saint Martin and Saint Vincent de Paul. The Way of the Cross, composed of brass bas-reliefs, follows the fourteen traditional stations, evoking the journey of Christ to crucifixion. Since 1970, a 15th station, physically absent, has been suggested by a Paschal inscription.

The current altar, created in 1998 by Abbé M. Guérin, mixes wood, gold copper and red striations, symbolizing the ransom sacrifice. Nearby, the baptismal fonts, adorned with the letters I.H.S (Jesus Saviour of Men) and alpha/omega symbols, recall the initiatory role of baptism. The chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, reserved for prayer, preserves the hosts for the sick. The baroque high altar, by stucco imitating marble, is a copy of the cathedral of Dax, made by the Mazzetti brothers in the 18th century.

External links