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This is actually
the former parish church of the old village of Cravant-les-Côteaux (Vieux-Bourg),
the 'new' village (and church) is a few kilometres along the road.
Guides to
this church tell us that it is a "rare example of 10th-century
Carolingian architecture" though others dispute this...we say it's very old!
You enter the church not through its
open main entrance, this is actually the exit, but through the side
portal. You are met by an information board giving you a brief history.
Yes you have to
pay to enter, not only that but it is via an unexpected coin
operated turn-style but don't worry they also provide change machines!
'Carolingian' meets 21st century can you imagine what the original builders
would have thought? Still it's all in a good cause, though I wonder why it
does not fall under the classification 'Monument Historique'?
Once you get through
the turn-style you are met by an initial disappointment of '! have just paid €3.00 for this'
- It is rather stark, the
15th century wooden-clad vaulted nave does nothing to improve the
situation...
...but as you
head into the oldest part of the church, the asp you are met with what I
imagine most visitors seek out, the Carolingian (or Merovingian, depending
on what you read) pillars and the frescoes.
The semi-domed
ceiling of the asp has 3 fairly primitive paintings of cherubs adorning it.
!4th century wall painting depicting three women at prayer.
Looking at
the pillars and capitals it looks as if they have been 'restored' to show
examples of what they may have been like at various times in their history.
Along the nave are sarcophagi
and pillars
There is a small altar and crucifix to remind us that we are in fact in a
church.
Outside there is some interesting detail on the corbels...
and around the
windows
The church is
located in the heart of
'Chinon'
wine country and with a couple of marked out walking routes nearby is worth
a visit, even if its just to add another €3.00 to its upkeep.
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