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Origin and history

The Sainte-Catherine church of La Roche-Derrian, located in the Côtes-d'Armor, is a religious building whose construction begins at the end of the 13th century, with elements still visible today such as the chapel of the fonts or the first span of the nave. The building suffered extensive damage during the battle of 1347, requiring a partial reconstruction which might have been carried out by the same masterpiece as that of the cathedral of Tréguier, as evidenced by stylistic similarities (departures of capitals, friezes, low vaults).

In 1376 Rolland de Kersaliou and his wife Méance Toupin, local lords appointed by Duke John IV of Montfort, financed the construction of a large chapel in the south wing of the choir. This late Gothic chapel is inspired by ducal models such as the Folgoët chapel. At the same time, a small northern chapel was erected with a fire and a grave, while a pontifical bubble of 1389 indicated the need for major repairs, including the west facade, the bell tower and the south porch.

After the destruction of the castle and the city walls by John IV in 1394, the church was fortified by Olivier de Clisson. Defensive modifications are made, such as the addition of a masonry staircase with murderers and the expansion of a chapel in guard corps. The arrow, destroyed by lightning in 1793, was rebuilt in 1820, accompanied by a comprehensive restoration and the addition of a sacristy. Other works were carried out in 1890 (reconstruction of the gable of the south porch) and 1894 (north of the Rosary).

The architecture of the church combines Romanesque and Gothic influences, with remarkable elements such as the bedside inspired by the Beauport Abbey, vaults on dogive crosses, and traces of 14th century polychromy behind the organ. The bell tower, characteristic of the tregor style, has typical berry patterns and an arrow rebuilt in the 19th century. Ranked a Historical Monument in 1913, the church also preserves remains of fortifications and a 20th century stained glass window commemorating the battle of 1347.

Inside, the seven-span nave alternates various supports (cylindrical columns, octagonal pillars) and double arcs with direct penetration, a rare arrangement for the time. The seigneurial chapel of Kersaliou, with its reserved access and its roofing panel, illustrates the aristocratic patronage. Subsequent changes, such as the enlargement of the northern collateral or the addition of a fortified reduction, reflect the successive adaptations of the building to military and liturgical needs.

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