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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Saint-Symphorian church of Morestel, built in the 15th century, was originally the chapel of the Augustine convent. It became the parish church of Morestel on 15 August 1791, replacing the old church threatened with ruin, after the property of the Augustins was declared national property on 13 July 1791. Its primary Gothic architecture, marked by a bell tower visible from the surrounding area, reflects its importance in the medieval urban landscape.

Partly listed as historical monuments since 22 September 1972 (excluding the bell tower), the church houses remarkable elements such as a 1628 bronze bell and a contemporary stained glass window opened in 1999. The bell tower, renovated by architect Alfred Berruyer (1819-1901), incorporates a characteristic pepper turret. Inside, vaulted with dogive crosses, was restored in 1998-1999, mixing medieval heritage and modern interventions.

The site, perched on a slight elevation near the old ramparts, dominates the market place and the old national road. The bell tower houses four bells, the oldest of which dates from 1528 (500 kg) and the smallest of 1739 (70 kg), offered by the Quinsonas family. These details illustrate its central role in the religious and community life of Morestel, from the Middle Ages to the contemporary era.

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