Initial construction XIVe siècle (≈ 1450)
Period of creation of the underground network.
1869
Site discovery
Site discovery 1869 (≈ 1869)
Search conducted by Mr. Ferrand Bruslon.
22 avril 2022
Registration Historic Monument
Registration Historic Monument 22 avril 2022 (≈ 2022)
Official protection of the cellar.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
The inhabited cellar located 2 bis alleyle du Mail, as represented on the plan annexed to the decree and corresponding to the bottom of cadastral parcel No. 492 of section C, and extending under cadastral parcels 493, 494 and 497 of section C: inscription by order of 22 April 2022
Key figures
Ferrand Bruslon - Discovery of the site
Owner who exhumed the cellar in 1869.
Julien Noblet - Historian and archaeologist
Author of the inventory file (2021).
Origin and history
The inhabited cellar of Saint-Christophe-sur-le-Nais is a 14th century historical monument, organized around three main galleries. Two are east-west, connected by a north-south corridor. These galleries lead to ancillary areas, including a large room in the southwest, equipped with a fireplace and initially served by a straight staircase. A notable architectural vestige is a typical veined arch start of the 14th century, partially masked by reinforcement masonries. This device suggested a cradle covering, now partially visible.
The main hall features remarkable elements such as a stone-cut niche, topped by a broken arch and fitted with a leafy leaf for a braid. Inside, a tablet divides the space horizontally, while a double arc, 50 cm wide, with fallen edges, is visible nearby. The masonries, composed of rubble and pinkish mortar with lime inclusions, reinforce the structure. A "saber blow" (structural fente) is observable to the west of this arc, testifying to medieval construction techniques.
The discovery of the underground network dates back to 1869, when Mr. Ferrand Bruslon, the owner of the garden above, began excavations after identifying signs of old cellars. This research revealed the entrance to the main hall and adjacent galleries. The site, registered as a Historic Monument in 2022, extends under several cadastral plots (Nos.492, 493, 494 and 497). Its state of conservation and its facilities (walk, staircase) suggest residential or functional use in the Middle Ages.
The materials used, such as tuffeau for cradles and bellows for masonries, are characteristic of the region. The pinkish mortar, very indurated and rich in lime nodules, indicates a desire for strength and durability. The presence of a fireplace and a niche closed by a vantail suggests a space arranged for storage or daily life, reflecting the 14th century architectural and domestic practices in Touraine.
