Collégiale Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Nicolas de Briançon, 18th-century parish church in Briançon, France
The Collégiale Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Nicolas is a baroque church with a symmetrical facade featuring two square towers decorated with sundials and a two-story central section. Inside, the nave and choir are framed by dark marble elements in the Tuscan style.
This church was built between 1705 and 1718 following Vauban's plans, after the previous structure was destroyed in 1692 during the War of the League of Augsburg. Its construction was part of the military redesign of the city by the renowned French fortifications engineer.
The interior elevations include Tuscan-style elements made of dark marble, with an entablature framing the nave and choir.
The church is located on Avenue Vauban in the old town and is easily accessible on foot. Be aware that extensive restoration work is underway, which may affect the exterior appearance and visitor access.
The towers are topped with imperial-style zinc roofs, with the peaks crowned by octagonal lanterns in a distinctive configuration. This roofing detail sets the building apart and gives it a memorable silhouette against the mountain setting.
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