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Origin and history

The church of Saint-Étienne de Branne, located in Gironde, is a neo-Gothic building built in the 3rd quarter of the 19th century (1862-1878) to replace an old church destroyed in 1859. The initiative belongs to Abbé Lapeyre, supported by Cardinal Donnet, who mobilizes the donations of parishioners and his own funds. The plans are signed by architect Pierre-Paul Courau, while the stained glass windows are made by Joseph Villiet and the bedside paintings by Ricaud. The church is characterized by a nave flanked by low side, a bedside with a polygonal apse, and two arrows culminating at 42 meters.

The building incorporates functional elements such as a Baptistery, confessionals, and a crypt accessible by a staircase, all adapted to the local topography thanks to an additional level under the bedside. The western facade, preceded by a perron, is in a neo-Gothic style, with foothills, bows and pinnacles. The church is now fully protected by a registration order for the Historical Monuments (9 August 2021), highlighting its heritage importance.

The construction of Saint-Étienne illustrates the 19th century community and religious commitment in Aquitaine, where parishes rebuild their churches in a neo-Gothic style, symbol of spiritual and architectural renewal. Participatory funding (donations, Abbé's commitment) reflects local attachment to this place of worship, while collaboration with specialized artisans (glasses, painters) demonstrates a desire for artistic excellence.

The church occupies a central place in Branne's life, as evidenced by its emblematic address (8 Church Square) and its status as communal property. Its openness to the public and its recent protection confirm its lasting role in the Girondin and neo-Aquitaine heritage.

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