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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The church of Saint-Martin de Langrune-sur-Mer, located in Calvados, is a religious building whose construction could go back to the 12th century, although its realization was attested in 1298. Originally, Langrune's land belonged to the Colombières family, who offered it to Troarn Abbey in 1096, a donation confirmed in 1103. The church, of a cruciform shape, has an eight-span nave, low-sides and a pentagonal apse choir, rare in Norman rural churches.

The tower-lantern, an emblematic element of the building, is surmounted by an octagonal arrow of 23 meters, surrounded by bell towers and skylights rebuilt at the beginning of the 20th century after their destruction in 1640. The bell tower, struck by lightning several times, was restored between 1904 and 1907, then damaged during the 1944 Disembarkation before being repaired in 1968. The church has been home since 1932 to the relics of Saint Helidore, a Roman martyr, attracting pilgrims.

Ranked a historic monument in 1840, the church illustrates the architectural richness of the 13th century Norman, with elegant capitals, blind arches and lancet windows. Its 12th century porch, triangular gable and carved decorations (clover friezes, vine garlands) bear witness to exceptional craftsmanship. Arcisse de Caumont, 19th-century historian, sees it as a notable example of rural Gothic art.

The successive restorations, especially those carried out by the architect Anthime de la Roque, have preserved its integrity despite historical hazards. Today, the church remains an active place of worship and a symbol of Normandy's religious and architectural heritage.

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