Church of Saint-Gervais-Saint-Protais (Église Saint-Gervais-Saint-Protais)
About Church of Saint-Gervais-Saint-Protais (Église Saint-Gervais-Saint-Protais)
The Church of Saint-Gervais-Saint-Protais is a magnificent Gothic church in Gisors, dating from the 11th century and expanded over 400 years. Originally consecrated by Pope Calixte II in 1119, the church was rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1124 and later transformed into a cathedral-sized masterpiece under Queen Blanche de Castille's patronage. The building showcases an extraordinary evolution of architectural styles: a 12th-century Romanesque tower, 13th-century Rayonnant Gothic choir inspired by Chartres Cathedral, Flamboyant Gothic nave with double side aisles from the 15th-16th centuries, and an elegant Renaissance façade. Visitors can admire exceptional treasures including the Tree of Jesse bas-relief (1585-1593), rare 16th-century stained glass windows by the renowned Le Prince family workshop, and the haunting Transi sculpture depicting a decomposed corpse with a medieval memento mori inscription. The helical Renaissance staircase leading to the organ gallery, inspired by the Château de Blois, is particularly noteworthy. The church suffered significant damage during World War II on June 8, 1940, but has been carefully restored and remains open daily. Free entry with optional guided tours available on reservation.
Interesting Facts
Though technically a parish church, its dimensions rival those of actual cathedrals - at 70 meters long and 24 meters high, it matches the size of Senlis Cathedral. The famous 19th-century architect Viollet-le-Duc called it 'one of the most representative churches of French Gothic architecture.'
The English Romantic painter J.M.W. Turner visited Gisors in 1832 and was so captivated by the church that he immortalized it in his artwork, adding to its artistic legacy alongside the medieval craftsmen who built it.
The south tower, known as the Grosse Tour or Rosary Tower, was started in 1542 but never completed due to lack of funding. Inside, you can find a unique version of the Tree of Jesse sculpture (1585-1593) where two classical Sibyls replace the traditional Hebrew prophets - an unusual Renaissance artistic choice that blends Christian and classical traditions.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Location & Practical Info
Address
Place du Parvis, 27140 Gisors, France
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