Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The church of Saint-Martin de Boeschepe is a Catholic hallekirque located in the Hauts-de-France, characterized by its square tower surmounted by an octagonal arrow and its three naves. It houses a polygonal choir and two sacristies, one of which dates before 1777 and the other after 1841. Its architecture reflects successive additions, such as the sacristies added to standardize the bedside.

In the 17th century, the church housed the tomb of Charles de Claerhout, local lord, and a commemorative plaque installed by Adrienne de la Douve, heir of his property. These elements underline its importance to the noble families of the region. The building remains a testimony of Boeschepe's social and religious history.

On 6 March 1906, during the inventories related to the separation of the churches and the state, clashes between the law enforcement forces and the inhabitants. Ghysel was killed there, an event that precipitated the fall of the Rouvier government and the suspension of inventories. This episode was a lasting sign of the history of the church, associated with Catholic resistance.

Since 2016, the church has undergone a major restoration led by architect François Bisman, with an estimated budget of 910,000 euros. The works, spread over several years, aim to preserve this architectural and historical heritage, symbol of the religious tensions of the early twentieth century.

External links