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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The church of Saint-Vincent de Sologny, located in the department of Saône-et-Loire in Burgundy-Franche-Comté, is a building whose oldest Romanesque parts (cheur, bell tower and apse) date back to the second half of the 12th century. Although mentioned as early as the 9th century in a cartular of Saint Vincent de Mâcon, its present structure bears witness mainly to this medieval period. The church underwent restoration in the 19th century, including the addition of a higher level to the bell tower, pierced with bays.

The architecture of the church has a rare peculiarity: its rectangular bell tower is located in a disoriented way on the south side, next to the chapel, evoking a Carolingian influence. This bell tower, open with geminied bays, dominates a nave illuminated by curved bays and an oculus above the western gate. The two side chapels, dedicated to the Virgin Mary (ddogives vault) and Saint Vincent (wood ceiling), reflect later additions or modifications.

The interior houses murals dated from the early 14th century, covering the abside and the cul-de-four. These frescoes, organized in superimposed registers, represent saints (Michel, Vincent, Georges, John the Baptist), an apostolic procession inspired by the Supper, and a Coronation of the Virgin, partially erased. These works, comparable to those of nearby Berzé-la-Ville, underline the artistic importance of the building.

Consecrated to Catholic worship, the church is now part of the diocese of Autun and the parish of Saint Vincent-en-Val-Lamartinien. It was listed as historic monuments on October 16, 1930, recognizing its heritage value. The property of the building belongs to the municipality of Sologny, while its religious assignment has continued since the Middle Ages.

The site, open to the visit, illustrates both the Burgundian Romanesque heritage and subsequent architectural developments, especially during the restorations of the 19th century. Its atypical bell tower and its murals make it a rare testimony of medieval art in Saône-et-Loire.

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