Église Saint-Martin de Vitré

The Église Saint-Martin is a church built in the Neo-Romanesque style, featuring a wide nave, a transept, and a dome at the crossing point. Inside, the space is organized with careful proportions and contains two significant organs for musical accompaniment during services.

Construction started in 1868 with the blessing of the foundation stone and was completed in 1895 under architect Jacques Mellet. The project spanned nearly three decades from initial planning to final completion.

The carved capitals display floral patterns and fantastical creatures created between 1892 and 1893 by sculptor Vergne. These ornamental details appear throughout the nave and reflect the craftmanship valued during the period.

Visitors can move freely through the interior to view the architectural features and carved details from various angles. It is helpful to allow time to examine the space carefully, including the two organs and other artistic elements throughout the structure.

The building employs an innovative metal framework covered with rubble stone, a construction technique that was unusual for churches during this period. This approach allowed builders to create larger interior spaces while maintaining a traditional appearance on the exterior.

Location: Vitré

Inception: 1895

Architects: Jacques Mellet

Architectural style: Romanesque Revival architecture

Address: boulevard Saint-Martin

GPS coordinates: 48.12370,-1.20633

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:21