Church of Saint Martin de Masnières dans le Nord

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Origin and history

The Saint-Martin de Masnières church, located in the Nord department in the Hauts-de-France region, is an emblematic monument to the post-First World War reconstruction. Very visible from the surroundings, it occupies the highest point of the commune, marking the local landscape.

The old church, dating back to the 16th century, had undergone many changes over the centuries. Its steeple, in poor condition, was rebuilt in 1860. In 1917, however, German troops systematically dynamited Masnières' buildings, including the church, to avoid the setting fire of British artillery. The commune was almost completely destroyed at the Battle of Cambrai in November 1917 and remained occupied until October 1918.

After Armistice, worship was temporarily carried out in a barracks and then in a hospital tent. The reconstruction of the church began thanks to the war damage funds. In 1927, the project of architect Pierre Leprince-Ringuet was retained. The new building, 40 metres long and 19 wide, was built mainly of brick and reinforced concrete, symbolizing the resilience of the local community after the destruction of the war.

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