St. Catherine Church, Penne, France

St. Catherine Church has undergone numerous changes over the centuries. It was originally built around the end of the 13th century, in the Occitan Gothic style; several 13th century features remain, such as the holy water stoup. It formed part of the defensive system of town walls and was at the entrance to the village.

During the Wars of Religion in the 16th century, the building was badly damaged, and the church bells were thrown into a well (but they were later retrieved and one was able to be restored).

It was re-roofed and restored during the reign of Henry IV (1589-1610).

Each century since has seen intermittent efforts to restore and improve the church, including a major re-orientation of the building in 1876.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

MC VULCAIN (8 months ago)
Nice modern stained glass

Jordi Ustrell (2 years ago)
Well preserved

Brian Kennan (2 years ago)
Lovely 13th century church, very well explained and presented for visitors. Very interesting to see how it was restored, having formerly been badly damaged in the religious wars. You can see parts of the former structure and vaulted ceilings.

José Luís molina (3 years ago)
Magnificent piano concert at L'Eglise Sainte Catherine.

Fred Durst (4 years ago)
Belle eglise avec des vendeurs souvent a l'intérieur donc ouvert bonne nouvelle

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