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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Saint-Sébastien church of Villedieu-sur-Indre is a Catholic religious building located in the Indre department, in the Centre-Val de Loire region. Built in the 11th century, it is distinguished by its truffled bedside, a rare example of the architectural experiments of this time. Until the 16th century, it served as a church for a priory dependent on the Saint-Gildas Abbey of Châteauroux, reflecting its importance in the local religious network.

The building has undergone several transformations over the centuries. In the 19th century, major changes were made: in 1835, plaster vaults replaced an apparent structure, and in 1880, the nave was extended with the addition of collaterals. A modern bell tower was built in the 20th century. Despite these changes, primitive elements such as bedside, transept and single nave remain visible, bearing witness to its Romanesque origin.

The carved decor, sober inside, is more elaborate on the outside, especially around the apsidioles. The latter, comparable to the niches of the ancient basilicas, frame the axial abside and illustrate the influence of ancient architectural models. The church was listed as historic monuments on 6 June 1994, recognizing its heritage value.

Today, the church depends on the archdiocese of Bourges and the parish of Châteauroux - Saint-Gildas. It is located in the natural region of the Berrichonne Champagne, in the heart of a territory marked by a rich religious and architectural history. Its exact address, 48 Rue du Général de Gaulle, allows to locate it precisely in the commune of Villedieu-sur-Indre.

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