St. Aignan Church, Chartres, France

Saint Aignan Church was originally built around year 400, in the era of pre-Romanesque, by the bishop of Chartres - later his name has given as the name of the church. The church is considered as the most ancient parishes in Chartres. In its history, the church has suffered from several times fire in 12th, 13th and in the early 16th century. Most of the church was rebuilt after the latest misfortune in the 16th century.

The main portal in the center of the front facade was the only part of the church that preserved for the new church. The church also suffered several times of change function during the French Revolution - it was once served as a military hospital, then once became a prison and even as a fodder shop. It finally returned as a worship place in 1822.

References:

Discover Chartres

Religious sites in France

User Reviews

Philippe Bun (10 months ago)
Hidden gem, few blocks away from the main cathedral. Very interesting architectural design. Colorful stained glasses. Come early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful scenery.

Alan C (AlanC-LAUK) (3 years ago)
Free entry, a large church that’s most interesting inside, I would say it is more interesting than the cathedral because you have close views of the stained glass windows and the interior stonework and roof are all painted. In need of restoration work.

Gill & Alan Chard C (3 years ago)
Wonderful little church, a hidden gem a few hundred meters from Chartres cathedral. A great example of a medieval church dedicated to St Aignan with painted walls, tapestries and stained glass. Definitely worth a visit

Gill C (3 years ago)
Wonderful little church, a hidden gem a few hundred meters from Chartres cathedral. A great example of a medieval church dedicated to St Aignan with painted walls, tapestries and stained glass. Definitely worth a visit

dante 65 (3 years ago)
Beautiful old Renaissance church, colour scheme a contrast to the austere stone that dominates most churches in the area. Despite the run down state of the place the decor is still vibrant, but didn't seem to get many visitors. Let's hope it gets restored to its full glory soon. There are worrying cracks in the ambulatory, such that it was closed when we visited due to the risk of rockfall!

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