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Origin and history

Saint Paul's Church of Châteauneuf, dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul, is a 12th century Roman Catholic building, mentioned in a charter of Saint Vincent de Mâcon between 1096 and 1124. It once depended on the diocese of Mâcon and the archpriest of Beaujeu. Its architecture, typical of Burgundy, includes a two-storey square bell tower, analysed by Viollet-le-Duc as a model of Burgundy Romanesque art, mixing Gallo-Roman and medieval influences.

The church underwent reshuffles in the 15th century, probably after damage related to the Hundred Years' War. In the 19th century, major restorations were undertaken: first by architect Millet (student of Viollet-le-Duc) from 1850, then in 1884-1885 after an alarming report on his state of degradation. The bell tower, which was crushed in 1892, was also repaired. These works were intended to preserve a building considered a masterpiece of Romanesque art.

Ranked a historic monument in 1862, the church is distinguished by its 12 metre high nave, its collaterals, and an apse in the hemicycle. Its lateral portal, decorated with an 11th century lintel representing the twelve apostles, and its square pyramid bell tower illustrate the richness of its decoration. Today, it remains an active place of worship of the diocese of Autun, attached to the parish of the Nativity.

The church's location, on a dominant rocky piton Châteauneuf, highlights its historic role as a landmark and religious symbol for the community. Its architecture also reflects the cultural exchanges of medieval Burgundy, between ancient heritage and Romanesque innovations. Viollet-le-Duc lives there in particular a filiation with Gallo-Roman monuments, visible in the pilasters and cornices of the belfry.

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