Church of Our Lady, Vernon

Located in the charming town of Vernon in the Eure department of Normandy, France, the Church of Our Lady, known locally as Collégiale Notre-Dame de Vernon, stands as a testament to centuries of architectural evolution and religious devotion. This magnificent structure, with its towering spires and intricate detailing, is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply the serene beauty of ancient churches.

The History of the Church of Our Lady

The origins of the Church of Our Lady date back to the late 11th century. It was around 1072 when Gilbert Fitz Osbern, the Bishop of Évreux, dedicated the church to the Holy Mother of God. The church was constructed on the site of a former pagan temple, marking a significant transition in the religious landscape of the area. The western façade, which greets visitors today, was completed in the 15th century, showcasing the Gothic architectural style that was prevalent during that period.

The church has undergone numerous renovations and expansions over the centuries. Between 1360 and 1610, significant work was done on the nave and the façade, resulting in the stunning Gothic structure with six bays and thirteen side chapels that we see today. Despite the many challenges it faced, including damage during the French Revolution and bombardments in World War II, the Church of Our Lady has been meticulously restored and remains a vital part of Vernon’s cultural heritage.

Exploring the Exterior

As you approach the Church of Our Lady, the first thing that captures your attention is its impressive western façade. This part of the church, dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries, is adorned with intricate sculptures and a magnificent rose window. The rose window, reminiscent of the one in the Sainte-Chapelle of Vincennes, features a complex design of circles and curves that symbolize various elements of the spiritual and material worlds.

The main portal is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, to whom the church is consecrated. The lintel, crafted by Ferdinand Taluet in 1866, depicts scenes from the life of Mary, including the Annunciation, the Visitation, the Adoration of the Magi, and the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple. Although many of the statues in the tympanum were damaged during the Revolution, the remaining details still convey a sense of reverence and artistry.

Another notable feature is the central tower, which remains unfinished, giving the church a unique silhouette. The north portal is also a sight to behold, with its arches adorned with angels and a frieze of vine leaves, grapes, and pine cones. As you walk around the church, you will notice numerous gargoyles and buttresses that not only serve structural purposes but also add to the Gothic charm of the building.

Discovering the Interior

Stepping inside the Church of Our Lady, visitors are immediately struck by the contrast in lighting and height between the older Romanesque choir and the more recent Gothic nave. The nave, with its high ceilings and large windows, creates a sense of openness and light, while the choir exudes a more intimate and ancient atmosphere.

The Nave

The nave is home to several remarkable features, including a crucifix created by Jean Drouilly in 1644, which hangs above the choir. The pillars at the entrance are adorned with statues of the twelve apostles, crafted by the regional artist Joseph Décorchemont in the 19th century. Behind the organ, a stunning rose window, designed by the glass painter Jacques Bony in 1975, adds a splash of color and artistry to the space.

The Choir

The Romanesque choir is the oldest part of the church, characterized by its nine rounded arches supported by single-block stone columns. The capitals of these columns are decorated with foliage and animal motifs, showcasing the craftsmanship of the period. The choir is also home to a remarkable Louis XVI-style high altar, which was originally from the Carthusian monastery of Gaillon and installed in the church in 1791.

The Ambulatory

The ambulatory, dating back to the 1160s, is considered one of the first Gothic-style structures in Normandy. It features a beautiful stained-glass window above the door leading outside, which depicts a verse from the Gospel of John: I am the light of the world. The vibrant reds and yellows of the glass come to life when illuminated by the morning sun, creating a breathtaking display.

The Renaissance Door

In the ambulatory, you will also find the sacristy, accessible through a Renaissance-style door. This door, with its folded panel design and intricate decorations, reflects the influence of the nearby Château de Gaillon and the early Renaissance style. The door's classicizing treatment, with its entablature and baluster columns, heralds the arrival of the first Renaissance in the region.

The Baptismal Chapel

The baptismal chapel features a 15th-century baptismal font and a modern statue of Saint Adjutor, depicted as a monk-knight. The upper part of the stained-glass window, a remnant from the 16th century, portrays the Crucifixion of Jesus, while the lower part, added in modern times, highlights the scene with its grey and red tones.

Saint Vincent de Paul Chapel

This chapel houses the mausoleum of Marie Maignart, a donor of the church's organ, who passed away in 1610 at the age of 23. The epitaph on her tombstone begins with a poignant reflection on human existence. The stained-glass window in this chapel combines 16th-century elements with a modern composition created by the Hermet-Juteau workshop in 1994. A recently restored statue of Saint Catherine, once located outside under the north porch, now resides in this chapel.

The Charity Brothers' Chapel

This chapel, occupying two bays of the nave, features stunning late 15th-century Gothic vaults. The Confraternity of Charity of the Blessed Sacrament, founded in the 14th century, was responsible for burying the dead in Vernon. The chapel's altarpiece, likely from the early 16th century, depicts the Passion of Christ in five episodes, separated by Renaissance-style columns.

The Church of Our Lady in Vernon is not just a place of worship; it is a living museum of art, history, and faith. Each corner of this ancient structure tells a story, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience the rich cultural heritage of Normandy. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or someone seeking a moment of tranquility, the Church of Our Lady offers a unique and unforgettable experience.