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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The church of Saint-Pierre d'Ourjout, also known as the church of Notre-Dame d'Ourjout, is a Romanesque building located in the region of Castillonnais, in the commune of Bordes-Uchentein (ex-Les Bordes-sur-Lez) in Ariège. Its major construction campaigns date back to the 11th and 12th centuries, with significant additions to the 17th century, such as the two chapels added in the 18th century. Ranked a Historic Monument in 1910, it is distinguished by its typical Romanesque architecture: unique nave, cul-de-four apse, and a sculpted cornice. The cover in irregular slate follows the local tradition of Castillonnais.

In 2012, the restoration of the altarpiece of the choir revealed well preserved Romanesque murals, dated around 1130, comparable to the works of the Master of Taüll. These frescoes, hidden for centuries, illustrate the artistic importance of the building. The bell tower-wall, with two geminate archatures, and the carved capitals (including a stylized lion to the north and plant motifs to the south) demonstrate remarkable craftsmanship. The Art Culture Heritage Association of Bordes-Uchentein actively works to preserve it, while valuing the rich local heritage.

The interior of the church combines original Romanesque elements and later changes. The choir, vaulted in cul-de-four, is supported by carved capital columns, while the nave, formerly carpented, is today vaulted in plaster. The lateral chapels, added in the 18th century, formed an atypical transept for a Romanesque church. Outside, the circular abside features a carved decoration (modillons and archatures) characteristic of southern Romanesque art. The bases of the columns, decorated with claws evoking shoes, recall those of the old cathedral of Saint-Lizier, highlighting the regional artistic links.

The St. Peter's church of Ourjout embodies both a medieval heritage and a living history, marked by recent discoveries and strong local involvement. Its ranking in 1910 and recent excavations (like the 2012 paintings) make it a key site for understanding Romanesque art in Occitanie. The work of the local association, including publications such as the brochure Visits to the five churches, aims to transmit this heritage to future generations, while integrating the building into a wider heritage network, including prehistoric and historical sites in the municipality.

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