Église Saint-Martin d'Esnandes, Fortified church from 12th century in Esnandes, France.
Saint-Martin Church in Esnandes is a fortified church from the 12th century located along the French Atlantic coast. The building features three naves with walls three meters thick and defensive elements including battlements and machicolations positioned throughout its structure.
The church first appears in written records in 990 when it was mentioned in a charter of Saint-Cyprien Abbey in Poitiers. During the Hundred Years War, the building was transformed into a fortress to defend against coastal attacks.
The facades display sculptures from different periods, particularly around the entrance portal which preserves 12th-century Romanesque details. These artworks reflect the building's long construction history across several centuries.
The church is accessible free of charge throughout the year and welcomes visitors to explore its interior. Pets are allowed inside, making it a family-friendly place to visit.
The bell tower standing today was rebuilt in 1633 and incorporates wood from shipwrecks found along the coast into its framework. This unusual material reflects the close connection between the village and the sea.
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