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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The church of Saint-Veterin de Gennes, located in the department of Maine-et-Loire, finds its origins in the ninth century, when it belonged to the royal domain. In 845 Charles II the Chauve donated it to the abbey of Saint-Maur de Glanfeuil. Originally, it housed the relics of Saint Veterin, whose body was moved to Tournus and then destroyed during the Wars of Religion. The oldest part, located at the base of the bell tower, could date from the 10th century or from the Carolingian era, according to the interpretations of historians.

In the 11th century, the building underwent major transformations, including the addition of an arcade in the middle of the wall connecting the nave to the bell tower. The 12th century marked a partial reconstruction: the bedside was replaced by a transept and an apse choir, flanked by absidioles. The introduction of dogive arches in Anjou led to modifications to improve lighting, with arch keys decorated with various patterns (flowers, human masks).

In 1300 the bishop of Angers Guillaume Le Maire consecrated a high altar. The western facade was redesigned at the end of the 15th century with the addition of a Gothic window and a frame porch. In the 18th century, in the face of an advanced state of ruin, restoration works were carried out in 1772 for 4,750 pounds. Additional consolidations took place in the 19th century, notably in 1850 and 1868, before its classification as a historical monument in 1862.

The church thus illustrates a continuous architectural evolution, mixing Carolingian, Romanesque and Gothic heritages. Its bell tower and apse, protected from 1905 and 1913, testify to its heritage importance. Archaeological and historical sources, such as the works of René Planchenault or Célestin Port, underline its constructive complexity and its role in local religious history.

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