Linteau de Saint-Génis-des-Fontaines

The Linteau de Saint-Génis-des-Fontaines is a pre-Romanesque marble sculpture at the abbey in southern France showing Christ within a central mandorla, flanked by two archangels. Additional figures appear on both sides beneath horseshoe-shaped arches.

The sculpture was created in 1020 under Abbot Guillaume during the reign of King Robert II. It remains the earliest dated Romanesque sculpture in France, marking a key moment in the development of medieval art.

The Latin inscription above the carved figures honors Saint Genis and reflects the dedication of the abbey to its patron saint during the early medieval period. It shows how central this holy figure was to the monastery's identity and daily spiritual life.

The sculpture sits directly above the main entrance to the abbey church, so visitors see it immediately upon arrival. The best view of the carved details comes from standing at the base looking upward.

The sculpture was originally designed to support an altar rather than serve as a doorway sculpture. In the 12th century it was moved above the church entrance, where it has welcomed visitors ever since.

Location: Pyrénées-Orientales

Inception: 1020

Architectural style: pre-Romanesque art

GPS coordinates: 42.54341,2.92189

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:21