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Origin and history

The Saint Peter's church of Thaon, located in the Mue Valley in Thaon (Calvados), is an emblematic example of Norman Romanesque architecture. Built in the 11th and 12th centuries, it is distinguished by its defensive bell tower, five-span nave and rectangular choir. Disused in 1840, it was classified as a historical monument in the same year for its monumental and artistic interest.

The building has undergone several modifications over the centuries: in the 13th century, the choir bays were enlarged for more light, and in the 17th-15th centuries, the lower sides were abolished. It was transformed into a saltpeterry workshop during the Revolution (1792-1796), and was restored on several occasions, notably between 1896 and 1901 by Léon Bénouville, then in 1971-1972 and 1994 to save its threatened bell tower.

Since 1998, a comprehensive archaeological study, led by François Delahaye, has revealed traces of earlier buildings (VIIth in the 10th century) and bones offering insights into medieval lifestyles. The church, now managed by the Association of Friends of the Old Church of Thaon, is a key site for understanding the architectural and social evolution of medieval Normandy.

The tower-clocher, quoted by Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, preserves defensive elements such as a round road and a staircase integrated in the thickness of the walls. The nave, originally flanked by bottoms, features zigzag interior decorations and characteristic exterior arches. The bedside, decorated with framed stone crosses, bears witness to the symbolic richness of Norman Romanesque art.

The excavations revealed the sarcophagus of the seventh century, suggesting an ancient cult occupation, as well as the remains of a pre-Roman church (IX-X centuries). These discoveries, combined with the anthropological studies of Cécile Niel, have enabled the reconstruction of the site's history, from its origins to its decommissioning in the 19th century.

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