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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The church of Saint-Timothée, located in Paussac-et-Saint-Vivien in the north-west of the Dordogne, is a Catholic building whose construction begins in the middle of the 12th century. The two spans of the nave, covered with cupolas on pendants, testify to this period. At the end of the 12th century, the south wall underwent a major overhaul: its thickness was reduced to apply a symmetrical architectural decoration, including carved archatures and narrow bays. This wall still retains traces of mâchicoulis probably dating from the 15th century, adding a defensive character to the building.

At the beginning of the 13th century, the church was elongated eastward by the addition of a straight span of choir with a flat bedside, narrower than the nave, replacing the primitive apse. This architectural choice is inspired by other regional churches such as Saint-Étienne-de-la-Cité or Grand-Brassac. The stylistically dated bedside window capitals confirm this extension. All spans, including that of the choir, are vaulted with cupolas on pendants, characteristic of the churches of the region between Angoulême and Périgueux. The bell tower, covered with flat tiles, dominates the whole.

The church was listed as a Historic Monument on September 4, 1902, recognizing its heritage value. Subsequent changes, such as the opening of a door in a braid in the 15th century on the south wall or the restoration of the bell tower in the 19th century by architect Vauthier, mark its evolution. In 1988, archaeological surveys revealed bones and coffin nails attesting to its funerary use. Its defensive system, including mâchicoulis and crenellated chambers, reflects the protection needs of the 12th–14th centuries in this border region.

The building is part of the series of cupola churches on pendants, typical of Périgord and Angoumois. Its north wall, sober and devoid of decoration, contrasts with the richly decorated south wall, illustrating the aesthetic and functional choices of its builders. The western facade, pierced by a 16th century portal, and the hollow tile cover of the nave complete its distinctive architectural features.

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