Église Notre-Dame de Carentan

A treasure trove of Norman religious architecture, the Notre-Dame de Carentan church showcases stained-glass windows from the 15th, 16th, 19th and 20th centuries, along with a magnificent 16th-century chapelle du Rosaire.

Site History & Significance

Situated in the heart of the Marais Poitevin Regional Natural Park, the Église Notre-Dame de Carentan holds a strategic position in the historic center of Carentan. A treasure trove of Norman religious architecture, this 11th-century church was originally built in the Romanesque style, though few vestiges of this period remain apart from the west portal and the four pillars of the transept. It was ravaged in the Hundred Years’ War and subsequently rebuilt in the Gothic style. The church has a beautiful collection of stained-glass windows from the 15th, 16th and 19th centuries, as well as windows installed after Carentan was liberated during World War II. Perhaps most notably, a magnificent 16th-century chapelle du Rosaire is located in the apse.

About the Restoration Project

Notre-Dame de Carentan has endured the ravages of time and is now in significant need of restoration, especially in terms of the roofing and the masonry on the southeast façade. The FHS grant will help with this effort and allow the church to remain open to the public for events.

Notre-Dame de Carentan Today

The imposing undertaking of restoring Notre-Dame de Carentan relies on a tight-knit community, represented by the town as well as the association for the church’s preservation and restoration. The association regularly organizes concerts and other events to raise funds to support the restoration effort and help bring the church to life.