Église Saint-Maurice de Sens, Medieval Catholic church in Sens, France

Église Saint-Maurice de Sens is a Catholic church on rue de l'Île d'Yonne, on the bank of the Yonne opposite the Yonne bridge, not on an island. It dates from the second half of the 12th century and was remodeled in the 16th century. The building has a flat chevet with half-timbering facing the river, topped by a small slate spire, and a tall dark spire rising from the roof.

The church originated in the Middle Ages as a parish for fishermen and boatmen who transported wine barrels and wood convoys between Paris and Auxerre. This economic role shaped its importance in the city's society at that time.

The high altar came from a chapel of Sens Cathedral; its Renaissance stone retable has pilasters and niches with biblical city scenes, and a bas-relief on the altar front. At the top, a polychrome equestrian statue shows Saint Maurice in armour with a lance on a white caparisoned horse, facing Saint Andrew with his cross.

Visits are possible on limited days throughout the year, with regular Saturday evening mass services held at 6:30 PM. It is helpful to check opening days in advance to plan your visit successfully.

The church's original stained glass windows were destroyed during the 1940 bombings and replaced in the 1950s with new figurative designs set against blue backgrounds. This restoration shows how the place redefined itself after the Second World War.