Chapelle de Sainte-Marie-aux-Anglais

Constructed around 1140, the Chapel of Sainte-Marie-aux-Anglais has remarkably retained its original form, offering a rare glimpse into medieval ecclesiastical design. 

Site History

Situated in the Norman countryside near Le Mesnil-Mauger, France, the Chapel of Sainte-Marie-aux-Anglais is a remarkable example of 12th-century Norman architecture. The interior walls are adorned with 13th-century murals depicting scenes from the lives of Jesus and the Virgin Mary, as well as the murder of Thomas Becket and a castle under attack by neighboring peasants. These paintings serve not only as artistic masterpieces but also as educational tools reflecting the medieval worldview. 

In the 17th and 18th centuries, the chapel functioned as a parish church under the Diocese of Lisieux. However, by 1836, parishioners sought to join more-accessible churches, leading to the chapel’s desacralization and subsequent neglect. 

About the Project

Recognized as a historic monument in 1910, the chapel has undergone several restoration efforts to preserve its structural integrity and artistic heritage. In 2017, significant work was undertaken to restore the bell tower, including the delicate process of lifting the shaft for repairs. In 2024, French Heritage Society, together with the William T. Kemper Foundation, supported the restoration of the chapel’s nave. The ongoing restoration efforts focus on preserving the chapel’s unique architectural features and invaluable murals. In addition, a comprehensive study of the paintings has been conducted, including high-resolution photography, to inform future conservation strategies. 

Chapelle de Sainte-Marie-aux-Anglais Today

Today, the chapel stands as a testament to medieval Norman architecture and art. Its well-preserved state offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience the ambiance of a 12th-century place of worship, complete with original murals and architectural details. The ongoing restoration ensures that this historical gem remains accessible for future generations to appreciate and study.