Lovers of old buildings and heritage are sure to be impressed by the Church of St. Peter, in Aulnay de Saintonge. This gem is one of the finest specimens of Poitiers Romanesque architecture. Built in the 12th century at the request of the canons of Poitiers, it has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1840 and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998 as part of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela.
Aulnay-de-Saintonge Church is renowned for its richly carved decorations, depicting symbolic figures from the Romanesque era. Its western façade, flanked by two lanterns, presents a richly decorated central portal. The southern portal also reveals numerous carvings of apostles, human figures and animals. Inside, you can admire some magnificent ornamental capitals, characteristic of the Romanesque style.
The church is adjacent to an ancient Merovingian cemetery, surrounded by majestic cypress trees, with tombs dating mainly from the 19th century and a 15th-century "hosannière" cross (a type of funerary aedicule typical of Western France). Two gardens have been created around the church: a medieval garden, with various medicinal and vegetable plants, and an archaeological garden, where the remains of a Gallo-Roman temple can still be seen.
| Address | Chemin de Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle, Aulnay |
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World Heritage of UNESCO under the Ways of Saint Jacques de Compostela, it is one of the major components on Via Turonensis.
Situated away from the town of St. Peter's Church tower on the eve of ancient tombs of a cemetery planted with yews. The curious tombstones and sarcophagi on stilts hosannière the cross, and the very recent "medieval garden" are a remarkable heritage entity. It should be noted that the statue of the cross may represent hosannière Saint Jacques pilgrim.
The construction site of its construction began in 1130 and was a great artistic center contributing to achieve one of the masterpieces of the Romanesque Saintonge.
Its elegance comes from the harmony born of the simplicity of the plan and decorative richness, and the ornamental quality of his sculptures:
The central portal with arches illustrate the work of months and signs of the zodiac, the parable of the foolish virgins and wise virgins, the battle of the vices and virtues.
The south portal is decorated with four richly decorated arches whose most original described a fabulous bestiary born of the imagination and skill of an anonymous artist.
Inside, very simple plan in a Latin cross with a nave of two backed collateral showcases the amazing sculptures accented capitals (Samson and Delilah and elephants).
Curious history and art, you can contact the Tourist Office (opposite the church) who organizes, by appointment guided tour of this stunning monument of Aulnay.
A special atmosphere emerges from this set and from the church crossed the threshold, you will be caught by this world of beauty, peace and contemplation.
