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Origin and history

Sainte-Raffine Church, also known as Sainte-Raffine, is a Catholic church located in Frégimont, Lot-et-Garonne. It is dedicated to Notre-Dame de la Nativity and Saint Raffine, a mysterious figure whose identity could be a distortion of Saint Rufine, martyred under Diocletian. Nearby was a source of the same name, the object of an ancient pilgrimage.

The building is considered one of the oldest churches in the Lot-et-Garonne, with elements potentially dating from the 10th or 11th century, although its rudimentary style has generated debate. The choir, dating from at least the 12th century, is the oldest part, once vaulted in cul-de-four. The nave, more recent, could date from the thirteenth century, just like the bell tower.

The church houses a pulpit to be preached since 1906, dated between the 15th and 16th centuries, although some authors trace it back to the 12th or 13th century. Two 12th century altars, classified in 1910, and a bentier of 1704 complete the furniture. The building suffered collapses, including that of the sacristy sixty years ago, and was restored fifteen years ago.

The church was listed as historical monuments in 1947. Its modest architecture, marked by Romanesque capitals and a low portal, reflects the beginnings of Romanesque art. A 19th century cast-iron cemetery cross and a porch protecting the entrance complete the whole.

Opinions differ on its date: Georges Tholin located it in the 10th or 11th century, evoking a primitive style, while Pierre Dubourg-Noves proposes the 13th or 14th century, judging the style simply clumsy. These debates highlight the historical interest of this rural monument.

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