Collégiale de Candes-Saint-Martin

The Collégiale de Candes-Saint-Martin is a Gothic church standing where the Loire and Vienne rivers meet, distinguished by its richly decorated west facade with two rows of carved statues. Inside, ribbed vaults, medieval painted consoles, stained glass windows, and a decorated altar showcase the craftsmanship of its construction.

The church was founded in the 13th century on the site of an earlier Christian building from the 4th century. Following the Hundred Years War, the 15th century brought defensive reinforcements to protect it from military threats.

The church is named after Saint Martin and served for centuries as a pilgrimage destination for travelers heading to Santiago de Compostela. Visitors can still sense this spiritual role through the votive offerings and prayer candles left by the faithful throughout the building.

Access to the church is straightforward as it sits in the center of the small town, with parking available nearby. The building welcomes visitors during daylight hours, and informational materials along with helpful staff who speak multiple languages are available on-site.

The main entrance sits unusually on the north wall rather than the traditional west side, supported by a single column beneath a ribbed vault. This uncommon placement was chosen to preserve the full view of the elaborate west facade with its carved statues.