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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Saint-Martin de L'Aigle church, located in the Orne department in Normandy, is a Catholic monument built from the 11th to the 20th century. It is distinguished by a marked architectural stratification, reflecting five distinct epochs. Founded in the 11th century, it retains its clock tower and apse. The building underwent major transformations, notably in the 15th century with the addition of the chapel of the Rosary (1425), then its extension in Gothic style flamboyant between 1494 and 1499 to form the north side. A large tower, whose ground floor served as the first span, was also erected at that time.

In the 16th century, the church was changed again: between 1546 and 1552, an independent lateral nave was added to the south. In 1567, she suffered a ruin followed by a reconstruction in 1583. During the Revolution, it became a Temple of Reason. Around 1890, interior modifications included a hollow brick vault on the nave and choir, accompanied by the installation of neo-Gothic furniture. The bombings of 1944 destroyed the southern windows, leading to a renovation campaign involving contemporary artists like Max Ingrand for the stained glass windows and Jean Lambert-Rucki for the statues.

Classified as a Historic Monument, the church houses protected works, including the Porcian bell (classified in 1971). A partnership agreement signed in 2018 between the Fondation du Patrimoine, the city of L'Aigle and the association Les Amis de l'Église Saint-Martin aims to finance its restoration. The building thus illustrates a harmonious synthesis of architectural styles, marked by successive reconstructions and a rich cultural history.

The church is placed under the patronage of Martin de Tours (bishop died in 397), highlighting its historical religious anchor. The protected elements include the tower (classified in 1886) and the church itself with its nine external statues (classified in 1990). Several twentieth-century artists, such as Paul Belmondo and Raymond Martin, contributed to his beautification after the destruction of World War II.

The precise location of the building is 4 Place Saint-Martin in L'Aigle (code Insee 61214), in the department of Orne. Its property belongs to the municipality, and its GPS location is considered satisfactory (level 7/10).

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