Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The church of Saint-Pierre-ès-Liens de La Celle-Dunoise, mentioned as early as the 12th century, was initially linked to a priory-cured whose appointment belonged to the bishop of Limoges. During the Revolution, it was transformed into the Temple of Reason and served as a meeting place for the electoral assemblies. Catholic worship was restored in the year XI (1802-1803), marking a return to its original religious function.

In 1862, the building was enlarged according to the plans of architect Masbrenier: a span was added, a main gate opened to the west, and the gallery moved. In 1868 the sacristy was replaced by a chapel and a new sacristy. The choir was decorated in 1879 with a fresco by Albert Bertolletti. The church combines a nave with arches of warheads and a choir with arches, with capitals carved of animals and floral motifs dating back to the 12th century.

The gate and apse, classified as historical monuments in 1921, bear witness to its Romanesque origin. The rest of the building, registered in 1988, reflects the architectural evolutions of the 15th, 16th and 19th centuries. The stained glass windows, dating back to the 19th century, complete this ensemble where medieval heritage and modern modifications are mixed.

The square bell tower, located above the second span, is bordered by a staircase screw to the south. Access is through two doors, including a north gate decorated with carved capitals. These elements illustrate the artistic and historical richness of this monument, property of the municipality of La Celle-Dunoise.

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