Église Saint-Martin de Villenave-d'Ornon, Romanesque church in Villenave-d'Ornon, France.
The Église Saint-Martin is a Romanesque church in Villenave-d'Ornon with a nave flanked by two side aisles, two transepts, and a hemispherical apse. The layout follows the architectural principles of the 11th century and displays the classic structure of that period.
The church was built in the 11th century and later expanded with a bell tower in the 17th century. Archaeological excavations in 1967 uncovered a sarcophagus that confirmed the site's role as a stop on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela.
The church displays Romanesque sculptures from the 11th and early 13th centuries with geometric patterns and animal figures carved into the nave pillars. These carvings reflect the artistic traditions that pilgrims and worshippers encountered during their visits.
The church is located in the center of Villenave-d'Ornon and is easily accessible on foot. Regular services take place, so visitors should check opening hours in advance or inquire with the local community.
The bell tower dates from the 17th century and sits at the southwest corner with rounded arch windows. This later addition stands apart from the original Romanesque design and shows how the building evolved over time.
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