Church of Saint-Vaast
About Church of Saint-Vaast
This neo-Gothic church was built between 1851 and 1861 in Caen stone, replacing an earlier 11th-century church that had become too small. The building imitates 13th-century Gothic architecture but lacks a bell tower, an unusual feature for a French parish church. Inside, 64 stained glass windows by master glassmaker Charles Lorin of Chartres illuminate the nave, installed between 1897 and 1937. Thirty-eight of these windows are classified as historical monuments. The pulpit, confessionals, and baptismal fonts were salvaged from the old Saint-Martin church in Rideauville. Entry is free, and visitors can appreciate the exceptional light quality created by the stained glass.
Interesting Facts
Saint Vaast was the first Bishop of Arras who prepared King Clovis for baptism in 496 AD. According to legend, he held the crown during the baptism ceremony conducted by Saint Remi. The dedication of this Norman coastal church to a saint from the Artois region likely resulted from contact between local fishermen and those from Picardy who fished together in the Baie de Seine.
The church was built entirely through a 'voluntary association' formed by townspeople on April 11, 1850. Led by Mayor Lamache and priest Jouan, residents pooled resources to replace their crumbling medieval church. Construction took 10 years, with the first stone blessed in October 1851 and the building opening for worship on July 28, 1861.
Every ten years, Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue celebrates the Fête de la Mer, a festival honoring fishermen and those lost at sea. The night before, volunteers decorate the entire town with thousands of handmade paper flowers. The celebration culminates with the Bishop of Manche blessing the fishing boats at the end of the great jetty, facing Tatihou Island. The next festival will take place in 2030.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Location & Practical Info
Address
Place de l'Église, 50550 Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, France
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