Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The church of Sainte-Marguerite du Vésinet, located in the Yvelines in Île-de-France, was built between 1862 and 1865 under the direction of architect Louis-Auguste Boileau. Sponsored by the Pallu Company, it marks a major architectural innovation: the first use of banded concrete and a metal structure combined with light masonry. Its neo-Gothic style contrasts with modern techniques, such as cast iron pillars and metal pendants.

The first stone was laid on June 20, 1862 by Bishop Jean-Pierre Mabile of Versailles, and the church was consecrated on July 2, 1865. In 1866 Napoleon III erected the parish of Vesinet. Between 1896 and 1903, extensions were added: a sacristy and two side chapels by architect Gilbert, while Maurice Denis decorated the chapels and the walk of frescoes and stained glass between 1901 and 1903.

Classified as a historical monument in 2016, the church is dedicated to Saint Marguerite in tribute to the daughter of Alphonse Pallu, founder of the city. Its originality lies in the alliance between neo-Gothic tradition and revolutionary materials (container, iron), illustrating 19th century architectural experiments. The works of Maurice Denis, a major figure of symbolism and nabism, also make it a remarkable artistic place.

The building, owned by the commune, is distinguished by its early use of reinforced concrete and its apparent metal structure, reducing the size of the pillars. These technical innovations, coupled with a careful religious decor, make it a unique testimony to the evolution of constructive and aesthetic methods during the Second Empire.

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