Church of Saint-Savin sur Gartempe

Church of Saint-Savin sur Gartempe, France belongs to the period between 11th-12th century. It mainly contains beautiful murals which are still preserved in a remarkable state. This church boasts of having the largest Romanesque frescoes of Europe.

Very little is yet known about how Church of Saint-Savin sur Gartempe, France originated. It is a widespread legend that during the days of Charlemagne, Savin and Cyprian, two martyrs were persecuted in the fifth century. It was later discovered miraculously by Baidilius, Abbot of Marmoutier. Baidilius had ordered to build a church so that the holy remains can be preserved. It is just a coincidence that a castle was erected next to the sanctuary by Charlemagne.

During this time Saint-Savin had played an important role for monastic renewal. When in 18th century a grave was discovered in the ground of the parish church of Saint-Savin, it was established that one of the first Abbots was Fr Dodon. He died at the age of 90 on June 4, 853. For thirty years he had governed this monastery. As the Church of Saint-Savin sur Gartempe, France was sheltered by the castle, therefore it could avoid pillage from the Viking raids. The remains of the saints were brought to Saint-Savin for safekeeping at the end of the 9th century and the 10th century.

Church of Saint-Savin sur Gartempe at France has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site ever since 1983. A square tower lies over the crossing of the cruciform church. When the construction of the church started, initially the transept was built, which was followed by the choir with its ambulatory. During the next phase of building three bays of the nave were included. The bell tower, its porch and finally the last six bays of the nave were constructed at Church of Saint-Savin sur Gartempe in France. During your France tours, you should definitely visit this church.