Église Saint-Martin de Plaimpied

Église Saint-Martin de Plaimpied is a Romanesque church with a Latin cross floor plan and a three-aisled hall arrangement. The building features a preserved crypt beneath the choir that forms an integral part of its original design.

Construction of the church began in 1080 under Archbishop Richard II of Bourges and took roughly a century to complete. The extended building period allowed Romanesque style to develop and mature throughout the structure.

The carved capitals throughout the building display religious scenes and figures that catch the eye as you walk through. These decorative details are considered among the finest examples of Romanesque craftsmanship in the region and shape how the place feels.

The entrance is easily accessible and the church sits near the town hall of Plaimpied-Givaudins. Keep in mind that interior spaces can feel dim because windows in Romanesque buildings are typically small.

The crypt beneath the choir displays Romanesque paintings showing floral motifs and monks' heads in remarkably good condition. These wall decorations are rarely seen in such preservation and offer a glimpse into how interiors were once colored.

Location: Plaimpied-Givaudins

Inception: 1080

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

Part of: Abbaye Saint-Martin de Plaimpied

Address: rue Saint-Martin

Website: https://belleseglises.com/eglises/197

GPS coordinates: 46.99825,2.45520

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:25