Église Saint-Serge et Saint-Vigor de Colombelles

Église Saint-Serge et Saint-Vigor de Colombelles is a wooden church topped with a distinctive copper onion dome crowned by an Orthodox cross. Its architecture combines elements reminiscent of Saint Petersburg religious buildings with construction methods suited to the Norman region.

Russian workers from the Normandy Metallurgical Company built the church in 1926 according to plans by a Russian colonel, with partial support from their employer. The project emerged from the community's need for a space where they could practice their Orthodox faith and maintain their religious traditions.

The church reflects Russian artistic traditions through its hand-painted interior religious images created by skilled painters. It also houses a Russian literature library that connects visitors to the cultural heritage of those who built it.

The church is accessible but located away from main roads, so allowing extra time to find it is wise. Visitors should wear respectful clothing since it remains an active place of worship where services and ceremonies take place regularly.

The church holds the distinction of being the only Orthodox temple in western France and long remained unknown to most visitors. Its status as a registered historical monument since 1992 makes it a meaningful discovery for those exploring Russian heritage in France.

Location: Colombelles

Made from material: wood

Address: rue Raspail

GPS coordinates: 49.20000,-0.30924

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:00