Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The church Saint-Pierre de Gréolières, located in the Alpes-Maritimes, finds its origins in the fifth century with a first mentioned construction. The present building, attested as early as 1312, dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries for its Romanesque nave with semicircular apse and cradle in full hang. The façade preserves carved elements such as a pelican and antelots, one of which bears the date of 1530, marking the enlargement by a northern vessel covered with arched vaults of cloister.

In the 17th century, important works transformed the church: the arches of the threatening North Ship's warheads were replaced by vaults in cloister arches, and the medieval bell tower was rebuilt in bell tower tower between 1715 and 1727. The portal, which was initially poorly integrated, was moved during the renovations led by the master builders Raphaël Laugier and Antoine Doussan. The present campanile, topped by a girouette dated 1851, crowns the building.

The church houses remarkable furniture, including a 15th century Provencal altarpiece dedicated to St Stephen, attributed to the local school, and statues such as that of St Peter (17th century). Two major works, a Virgin with the Child (XIVth century) and a painting by Saint John the Baptist (attributed to Bréa), were stolen in 1987. Classified as a Historic Monument in 1984, the church illustrates the architectural and artistic evolution of the region, from Romanesque origins to Baroque additions.

The structure combines two asymmetrical naves, separated by columns and pilasters, while the apse in medium apparatus retains an old lighting slot transformed into a window. The north foothills and vaults in cloister arches show successive adaptations, reflecting the liturgical needs and constructive techniques of medieval and modern times.

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