Today, we are proud to present a new conservation project, this time taking us to Coutances in the Manche department: Saint-Pierre Church.
History of the church
First mentioned in a charter dating back to 1056, Saint-Pierre Church has stood the test of time.
Rebuilt from 1494 onwards by Bishop Geoffroy Herbert, following the devastation of the Hundred Years’ War, it stands in the heart of the old commercial quarter, which was then lively with fairs and markets. Part of its restoration was funded by the local trade corporations.
The building was listed as a Historic Monument from 1845 to 1883, then re-listed on 4 January 1901, following the law on the separation of Church and State, which transferred ownership to the local council.
Alongside Notre-Dame Cathedral and Saint-Nicolas Church, it forms one of the key features of Coutances’s Gothic skyline, instantly recognisable thanks to its Norman lantern towers.
In autumn 2023, Storm Ciaran caused severe damage to the church’s structure and roof, even causing blocks of stone to fall.
Listed as a Historic Monument since 1901, the building was then the subject of a vote by the Town Council to undertake major restoration work: roofing, doors, organ, electrical installations…
For those wishing to discover or rediscover the church, twelve information panels now trace its history. Installed on the hoardings around the building site, they are accessible every day, free of charge, until 31 December 2025. An exhibition open to all, residents and visitors alike, offering the chance to explore a vital part of Coutances’ heritage, from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Acknowledgements
We would like to extend our warmest thanks to La Failaisienne de Couverture and Guilloux Matériaux – Saint-Aignan Branch for their confidence in our K08 MH Restauration natural slate.
Technical Specifications:
Size: 30 x 20 cm, 6,500 units
Grade: MH Restauration, 8 mm thick and Fendis 8 mm
Distributor: Guilloux Matériaux – Saint-Aignan Branch
Roofing contractor: La Falaisienne de Couverture – 14700 LA HOGUETTE
Sources:
https://www.wikimanche.fr/%C3%89glise_Saint-Pierre_(Coutances)