Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Saint-Pierre de Belloch Church, also called Sant Pere de Bell-lloc, is a Roman Catholic religious building located in Vinça, in the Pyrénées-Orientales. Its existence was attested in 1142 by a writing, and its construction dates back to the 12th century and even to the end of the 11th century according to its architectural characteristics. It is distinguished by its unique nave, its semicircular sanctuary and a south door decorated with alternating harpsichords in grey and red sandstone, forming a remarkable polychrome decor. The ironwork of its vantals, composed of volutes and horseshoes, adds to its artistic originality.

The church is located on a hill overlooking the Tet River, at the border of the communes of Vinça and Rodès, near the dam forming Lake Vinça. Initially an isolated rural chapel, it was reportedly given in 1178 by Pierre de Domanova to the abbot of Saint-Martin du Canigou. Its bell tower-arcade, probably later added, overcomes the western gable wall. The apse rests on a prominent base, and a concrete column with a Romanesque capital carved of palmettes was inserted into a north pier.

Classified as a historical monument by decree of 30 October 1974, the Church of St Peter of Belloch illustrates Catalan Romanesque heritage. Its inclusion in the inventory of historical monuments underlines its architectural and historical importance. Bibliographic references, such as Noël Bailbé's or Géraldine Mallet's works, as well as his Mérimée sheet (PA0014177), document his role in the religious and artistic history of Roussillon.

External links