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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The building located in Montferrand, historic district of Clermont-Ferrand, dates from the 14th century. Between its floors, rebuilt in the 18th and 19th centuries, remains a mural depicting Saint-Christophe. This work occupies the reverse of a Romanesque opening, blinded in the 14th century and transformed into a niche. His placement was a prophylactic function: invoked against the Great plague, the saint had to protect the inhabitants from epidemics ravaging the Auvergne.

The painting, directly inspired by an English manuscript kept at Cambridge, illustrates attempts to combat the black plague. Populations blocked the openings to limit contagion, while apposing pious images. This Saint Christophe, unique in the region with that of Billom, bears witness to medieval health beliefs and practices. Its style and iconography reflect the cultural exchanges between England and the Auvergne at that time.

Ranked a Historical Monument by decree of 26 November 1990, painting and its wall support (cadastre LY 377) are the only protected elements of the building. Their preservation allows us to study artistic and religious responses to the epidemic crises of the 14th century. The exact address, 16 Jules-Guesde Street, corresponds to an area where location accuracy is considered satisfactory (level 7/10).

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