Our Lady Colegiate church in Semur-en-Auxois, Gothic church building in Semur-en-Auxois, France.
Our Lady Collegiate Church is a Gothic building in Semur-en-Auxois with high pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses supporting its stone walls and roof structure. The construction features the characteristic slim walls typical of Gothic design, with external supports that allow for larger windows and soaring ceilings inside.
Construction began in the 14th century and the church received classification as a historical monument in 1840, marking its early recognition in French heritage preservation. This official status established the foundation for its ongoing care and restoration through the following centuries.
The church interior displays stained glass windows from different periods, including a 1927 window dedicated to American soldiers stationed in the town. These windows tell stories spanning centuries and show how the building has reflected the community's changing life.
You can reach the church via Rue Buffon in the center of Semur-en-Auxois, where it stands surrounded by other medieval buildings. The location makes it easy to visit, and the surrounding area allows you to view the structure from multiple angles while walking through the old town.
The limestone structure displays architectural elements from multiple construction phases, with variations in stone cutting patterns and repair sections visible on the exterior walls. Walking around the outside, you notice how different building techniques leave their mark on the surface, creating a visual record of centuries of maintenance and adaptation.
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