Saint-Pierre Church (Église Saint-Pierre)
About Saint-Pierre Church (Église Saint-Pierre)
The Church of Saint-Pierre in Mortrée is a neoclassical church built between 1831 and 1834 by architect Dominique Dedaux. Designed in a basilical plan without transept, it represents the finest example of this architectural type in the Orne department. The facade draws inspiration from Greco-Roman temples, while the interior features a colonnade supporting an entablature with side aisles beneath flat ceilings. Corner chapels are illuminated by distinctive serlienne windows, a Renaissance element referencing ancient Roman design. The church was constructed as the centerpiece of the new village square when Mortrée was formed by merging several hamlets in 1794. Interior wall decorations were completed between 1890 and 1895 by painters Louis Chifflet and Antoine Barillet. Listed as a Monument Historique in 2006, the church is open daily for visitors.
Interesting Facts
The church was originally designed by architect Laumonier in 1829, but his plans were substantially modified by Dominique Dedaux in 1831. Dedaux relocated the bell tower from the traditional front position to behind the choir, creating the distinctive silhouette visitors see today.
Although the main structure was completed in 1834, the interior remained undecorated for over 60 years. The elaborate wall paintings were only added between 1890 and 1895 by painters Louis Chifflet and Antoine Barillet, giving the church its current rich interior appearance.
The church replaced an older chapel in the former village of Marigny. When the French Revolution created the commune of Mortrée in 1794 by merging three separate villages (Bray, Marigny, and O), a new central church was needed to symbolize the unified community.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Location & Practical Info
Address
7 Place de l'Église, 61570 Mortrée, France
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