Saint-André, Romanesque church in central Angoulême, France
Saint-André is a Romanesque church in central Angoulême. The façade was rebuilt in 1825 following neoclassical design by Paul Abadie senior, while the interior retains medieval elements combined with later architectural additions.
In 1020, Count Guillaume II of Angoulême transferred the church to Saint-Amand de Boixe Abbey, leading to the establishment of a priory at this location. This priory remained an important part of religious life in the city for centuries.
The church houses furnishings spanning several centuries, including a 17th-century pulpit, 18th-century organs, and painted canvases from the 16th to 18th centuries. These pieces reflect how the community added to the interior decoration over time.
The building remains active as a place of worship and can be visited during designated hours to explore its architectural features. Visitors should check opening times in advance, as these may vary depending on religious schedules and events.
The bell tower is divided into two floors with molded arches formed by small columns, housing the only vault that survived the Protestant attacks of 1568. These remains tell of a period of religious conflict that profoundly affected the city.
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