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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Saint-Saturnin church of Pont-Saint-Esprit, mentioned since 984 as a priory dependent on Cluny Abbey, was rebuilt in the 12th century, but almost nothing remains. The present building, of late Gothic style, dates mainly from the 15th century, with major works financed by parishioners, including the portal (1485-1490) attributed to Blaise Lécuyer, also active masterpiece on the Church of the Holy Spirit. Antoine de Joyes, a salt farmer and rector, played a key role in his financing. The church was consecrated in 1535, but was destroyed during the Wars of Religion (1562), then restored between 1595 and 1600.

In the 18th century, the facade was modified in 1754 to install an organ stand, removing part of the Gothic decor. Piled in 1793, she lost her bell tower and arrow, before being leased to the army in 1822 and returned to worship in 1826. A complete restoration took place between 1848 and 1865, rebuilding the side chapels and adding a neo-Gothic interior decor. The bell tower was completed in the 19th century. Ranked a historic monument in 2012, it bears witness to a complex architectural and social history.

The building is distinguished by its 15th century portal, probably by Blaise Lécuyer, and its late Gothic style, characteristic of southern churches. Its location near the Rhône, close to Saint Peter's Church, underlines its importance in the religious and urban landscape of Pont-Saint-Esprit. The vicissitudes of its history (destructions, restorations, changes of vocation) reflect the political and religious upheavals of the region, from the Middle Ages to the contemporary era.

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