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Key figures

Origin and history

The Saint-Martin church of Villefontaine is a Catholic religious building built between 1753 and 1756 to replace an older building. Located in the department of Isère, on the commune of Villefontaine (region Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes), it is distinguished by a four-span nave, a sideline, a flat bedside and a square bell tower surmounted by an arrow in polychrome varnished tiles. Its portal has a mosaic of Saint Martin as bishop, flanked by niches sheltering Jeanne d'Arc and Saint Thérèse de Lisieux.

In 1845, the church was enlarged, marking a first architectural evolution. Later, in 1978, his stained glass windows were entirely redone by the painter Fouché, in collaboration with the glassmakers of the workshop of Saint-Benoit-sur-Loire. These modern elements contrast with ancient works, such as a Virgin with the Child made of wood, an original cross path in the form of 14 medallions, and a funeral plaque of the Michalon family.

The building thus illustrates a superimposition of styles and eras, combining 18th century heritage, 19th century transformations and artistic contributions of the 20th century. Its interior decor, combining mosaics, contemporary stained glass windows and liturgical furniture, reflects a religious and community history rooted in the Iserois territory.

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