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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Notre-Dame-de-la-Nativity church of Écrouves is a Catholic church located in the Meurthe-et-Moselle department in the Grand Est region. Mainly dating from the 11th century, it replaces earlier buildings of the 9th and 10th centuries. As soon as it was built, it became a place of pilgrimage known for the healing of the collapses, attracting the faithful of the region.

The building underwent major alterations in the 13th century, then was transformed into a fortified church in the 15th century, probably in the context of the conflicts between Bourguignons and Lorrains. These changes include the addition of defensive elements such as murderers, still visible today. Its architecture thus combines Romanesque features and military adaptations, reflecting its spiritual and strategic role.

Ranked a historic monument by decree of 26 December 1883, the church is distinguished by its square bell tower with geminied bays and its carved modillons. Inside, a nave with a cross of warheads houses frescoes from the 14th and 15th centuries, as well as statues from the same period. These artistic elements bear witness to its cultural and religious importance throughout the centuries.

The church is located near the road to Paris, a few kilometers from Toul, in an area marked by historical exchanges between Lorraine and neighbouring regions. Its location, combined with its status as a protected monument, makes it an emblematic heritage of Meurthe-et-Moselle, managed today by the municipality of Écrouves.

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