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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Saint-Martin de Palaiseau church, dedicated to Saint Martin, Apostle of the Gauls, is located on the heights of the city, close to the ancient feudal castle and the river Yvette. Its origin dates back to an abbey founded in the 7th century by Queen Bathilde, although there is no trace of it today. The current building, built in the 12th century in a Romanesque style, was enlarged in the 15th century with the addition of two collaterals to the nave.

In the 18th century, the church became a place of memory for the Arnauld family: their remains, transferred from Port-Royal des Champs destroyed in 1711, were deposited in its crypt. On July 31, 1779, the future revolutionary Joseph Bara was baptized there. In 1866, the bell tower and its 26-metre arrow were erected, while the stained glass windows were renewed. Since November 21, 1930, the church has been classified as historical monuments.

The architecture of the church is distinguished by a nave and two structurally covered collaterals, with a west façade with three gables. The 12th century Romanesque portal, topped by a 14th-century Virgin and Child (classified in 1902), is the main entrance. Inside, the 18th century carved wooden master altar (classified in 1967), a 16th century Flemish painting and a painting by Giovanni Lanfranco (17th century) are among the protected elements.

The church was also marked by the presence of influential priests, such as Jean-Baptiste Marc Mireur (1800-1804), whose political preaching was controversial. Its history thus reflects the religious, artistic and social evolutions of Palaiseau, from the Middle Ages to the contemporary era.

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