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Origin and history

The church Saint-Sernin d'Artigues, located in Foulayronnes in the Lot-et-Garonne department, is a 12th century Romanesque building. Built on an eminence, it now retains its original apse and sanctuary. It is narrower than the nave and is decorated with nine arches in the middle of the wall, resting on columns, while a broad triumphal arch separates the two spaces. The capitals, carved with various motifs (foliages, lions faced, dragons), reflect the Romanesque art of the time.

Over the centuries, the church has undergone several changes. In 1507 a Gothic chapel and a portal with prismatic mouldings were added, as evidenced by a dated badge. In the 18th century, three brotherhoods (Saint Sacrament, Notre-Dame, Saint-Clair) were active, and the church was home to many relics. In 1882-1883 restoration works led by architect Bouilhet transformed the nave, the gate, and the bell tower, which was surmounted by an arrow.

The church is linked to local historical figures, such as Pope Clement V, from the region. In his will of 1312 he bequeathed gifts to the inhabitants of Artigues, including dowries for 30 girls. Another notable event was the agreement of 1235 between the bishop of Agen Raoul de Peyrines and the chapter of Saint-Caprais, concerning the tithes of the parishes of Foulayronnes and Artigues. These elements underline its central role in the religious and social life of the community.

Ranked a historical monument in 1941, the church also houses stained glass windows by Gustave Pierre Dagrant (1900), including one decorated with the coat of arms of the Artigues family. Its rectangular Romanesque bell tower and its interior decorations (tickets, columnettes) make it a remarkable example of medieval religious architecture, enriched by Gothic and modern additions.

Today, the church of Saint-Sernin d'Artigues remains a testimony to the religious and artistic history of the Agenes, mixing Romanesque heritage, Gothic transformations and 19th century restorations. Its adjoining cemetery and its location north of the village of Artigues reinforce its anchoring in the local landscape.

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