Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Saint-Martin church of Mesnil-Amelot, located in Seine-et-Marne, was built between 1520 and 1550 in a flamboyant Gothic style, with timid Renaissance influences visible in the choir capitals. His atypical plan, without transept or radiant chapels, includes a nave with three vessels of the same width, a walk-in and a polygonal bedside. The original polychromy, restored at the end of the 20th century, and a baroque altarpiece of 1654 enrich its interior.

Ranked a historic monument in 1911, the church enjoyed a complete restoration between 1971 and 2003, including its furniture and an organ inaugurated in 1991. Its bell tower, partially anterior to the nave, was redesigned in 1780 with the addition of a dome and a lantern. The western facade, richly decorated with trilobed arches and sculptures, is considered one of the most remarkable in the region.

The history of the church is linked to ecclesiastical lords, including the Cluny Abbey and the Priory Saint-Martin-des-Champs, before moving on to secular families like the Amelot. A carillon of ten bells, installed in 1666 by Florentin Le Guay, was partially destroyed during the Revolution. The classified furniture includes a 14th century Virgin with Child, statues of 18th century bishops, and Renaissance woodwork in the sacristy.

The building, now affiliated with the parish area West-Goële, illustrates the architectural evolution between the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Its exterior decoration, including carved foothills and gargoyles, as well as its stained glass and interior polychromy, testify to an exceptional craftsmanship. The proximity of Charles de Gaulle Airport contrasts with its preserved village setting.

The archives lack details about its construction, but an engraved date (1531) and 17th century documents illuminate its history. Modern restorations restored its original splendour, while adapting the building to contemporary needs, such as the installation of an organ and the preservation of its historic carillon.

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