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Origin and history

The church of Sainte-Cécile d'Avès, located in Gaillac in the Tarn, has its origins in the 10th century. It is mentioned for the first time around 920 in the will of Archdeacon Bénébert, who donated it to the chapter of the Cathedral of St. Cécile of Albi. The name Avès would come from fields of Avanus, a Gallo-Roman owner, and traces of habitat of that time were found on the site.

The original building, originally dependent on Montans, underwent many changes over the centuries. In 1325, it was assigned to the abbey of Saint-Michel de Gaillac by the vicar of Albi, Iterus de Violio. In 1894, the old church, considered in poor condition, was destroyed to expand the nearby cemetery. A new church, financed by Auguste Baljalade (owner of the nearby castle), was built and consecrated on 1 December 1902.

The present church, in the shape of a Latin cross with side chapels, is built in brick and has a sober style. Not widely used after 1945, it was closed in 1972 and reopened in 1987. Its architecture contrasts with the original building, described as a simple chapel with arch bell tower, with a bell of 1810 signed Larroque.

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