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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The church Saint-Pierre de Précigné, located in the Sarthe department in Pays de la Loire, is a religious building dating back to the 12th century. The nave and bell tower, characteristic of Romanesque art, are the first parts built. In the 13th century, the choir was erected with a vault of warheads decorated with painted sculptures, illustrating the transition to Gothic style. A southern chapel, dedicated to the family of Bois Dauphin, was added in the 16th century, marking a period of architectural development and decorative enrichment.

In the 19th century, the church underwent major changes under the direction of architects Vivoin (circa 1842) and Pascal Térité (circa 1880-1890), who rebuilt the nave, transept and added absidioles. A fire partially destroyed the building in 1900, leading to a major reconstruction between 1900 and 1914 by Pascal Truth: nave, transept, sacristy and upper part of the bell tower were re-built, incorporating ornamental sculptures. The choir, a witness to the medieval phases, was inscribed as historical monuments in 1926, highlighting its heritage value.

The building thus reflects nearly nine centuries of history, mixing Romanesque heritage, Gothic innovations and modern restorations. Its polygonal bell tower, curved vaults and cul-de-four apsidioles make it a remarkable example of religious architectural evolution in Anjou. Successive interventions, especially after the 1900 fire, preserved its central role in the community life of Précigné, while adapting its structure to the liturgical and aesthetic needs of each era.

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