Chapelle Sainte-Paix, 11th-century Romanesque church in Caen, France.
Chapelle Sainte-Paix is a Romanesque-style church in Caen featuring a choir with rounded arches and thick stone walls dating from the 11th century. The surviving portions reveal how medieval builders constructed such structures.
The chapel was built in 1061 on the right bank of the Orne River to commemorate an ecclesiastical council where Duke William issued significant laws. It symbolized the connection between secular power and church authority.
The capitals inside the chapel display various sculptural patterns that reflect how Norman craftsmen worked during the 11th century. They show the artistic tastes and techniques that were valued at that time.
The remains of the chapel are located behind Caen's train station and are not always directly accessible. It is best to check beforehand whether guided visits are available or if the site can be viewed.
In 1835, the remains of the chapel were incorporated into a gas plant, representing an unusual conversion of religious architecture into industrial infrastructure. This transformation shows how the 19th century dealt with older structures.
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