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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The church Saint-Martin de Diges, located in the department of Yonne in Burgundy-Franche-Comté, finds its origins in the 12th century, although its construction lasted until the 16th century. Originally castral chapel surrounded by remains of fortifications, it has been dependent since the 10th century on Saint-Germain Abbey in Auxerre. The parish, now integrated into the Archdiocese of Sens-Auxerre, preserves traces of its medieval past, notably in the flat bedside choir, supported by 13th-century pillars to 14th-century capitals, marking the oldest part of the building.

The present church, rebuilt in the 16th century according to a single-nave Latin cross plan, is distinguished by its arches with a dogive cross and its massive bell tower covered with a slate. The curved portal, decorated with doric niches and columns, bears the date of 1545, attesting to the completion of the work. Inside, the high altar comes from the ancient abbey, while a 14th century sculpture depicting Christ and the Renaissance-style baptismal fonts (the reg. of Louis XIII) bear witness to its rich artistic heritage. The building, inscribed in the historic monuments in 1931, was also a place of prayer for poet Mary Christmas (1883–1967).

Architectural elements reflect a transition between Gothic and Renaissance styles. The asymmetrical transept, the lower flat bedside than the nave, and the triple-column backrests illustrate this evolution. The Abbatial house, adjacent to the southern wall, recalls the historical links with the Abbey of Auxerre. Interior decorations, such as the door of the repulsed copper tabernacle (cenus scene, 18th century), complete this painting of a building marked by centuries of transformation.

The church of Saint-Martin, today the church-relais of the parish of Saint-Luc at the Marches of Puisaye, retains an active cult function. Its inscription in the title of historical monuments highlights its heritage value, combining local history, sacred art and emblematic architecture of the Burgundy region.

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