Saint Mary Magdalene Church (Église Sainte-Madeleine)
About Saint Mary Magdalene Church (Église Sainte-Madeleine)
The Église Sainte-Madeleine is a remarkable medieval church founded in the early 12th century by Henri I Beauclerc, Duke of Normandy and King of England. Its crowning glory is the magnificent 56-meter Flamboyant Gothic tower, constructed between 1465 and 1526, which has become the symbol of Verneuil-d'Avre-et-d'Iton and is visible for kilometers around. The tower features over 30 intricately carved statues depicting Old and New Testament figures, created by sculptors from Rouen Cathedral. Inside, visitors can admire a stunning collection of 15th and 16th-century artworks including a magnificent polychrome Entombment scene, beautiful stained glass windows, and a historic organ with 3,516 pipes originally built for Caen in 1756. The church was classified as a Monument Historique in 1862. Entry is free daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, with guided tours available upon request. Note that tower visits are currently suspended.
Interesting Facts
The Tour de la Madeleine, along with Rouen's Tour de Beurre, served as architectural inspiration for the famous Tribune Tower in Chicago, demonstrating how Norman Gothic architecture influenced American skyscraper design in the early 20th century.
The tower's construction took 61 years due to a 30-year interruption caused by lack of funds. Work resumed only after Bishop Artus Fillon, a native of Verneuil who became Bishop of Senlis, donated significant funds to complete the project between 1495 and 1526.
The church's magnificent organ was not originally built for this church - it was constructed in 1753-1756 for Saint-Pierre Church in Caen and was transported to Verneuil and installed in November 1784. With 4 manual keyboards and 48 stops, it remains one of the finest historic organs in Normandy.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Location & Practical Info
Address
Place de la Madeleine, 27130 Verneuil-d'Avre-et-d'Iton, France