Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The church of Saint Saturnin de Vouillon, originally built in 1149, now preserves three spans of the outer wall of the north side, three piles between the nave and the south side, as well as two thirds of its original façade. This prioral chapel, of imposing dimensions for the period, had arched lower sides in cradle and stands, an exceptional architectural arrangement in the region in the 12th century. The building disappeared completely, and it was reportedly burned in 1173, before being partially destroyed during the Wars of Religion, then reused.

In the 15th century, the church was restored after the damage suffered, but further deterioration occurred in 1829. Among its remarkable elements are carved capitals, including bare love representations, as well as a 16th-century bell commemorating the liberation of the territory of the Huguenot armies, after the destruction of the building. The church, classified as a Historical Monument by decree of 24 April 1926, now belongs to the commune of Vouillon, in the department of Indre.

The historical sources underline its initial role as a chapel of priory, with a complex structure for the period. The fora, rare in the region, suggest a function both liturgical and community, while the traces of religious conflicts (wars of Religion) recall the tumults that marked its history. The mutilations of the 19th century and protection in the 20th century illustrate the challenges of preserving a fragile medieval heritage.

External links