Chapelle Sainte-Apolline de Brianny, Religious chapel in Brianny, France
Chapelle Sainte-Apolline de Brianny is a small worship space with a rectangular nave and flat chevet lit by three narrow semicircular windows. A square bell tower tops the roof above.
First recorded in 1145, the building initially served as an ossuary under Montigny-sur-Armançon's oversight. It transformed into a chapel in the late 18th century.
The walls display 16th-century murals showing pairs of living and deceased figures that cover the interior space and reflect medieval thoughts about life and death. These paintings were created during a time when such visual reminders held deep meaning for local people.
The chapel remains locked and entry requires obtaining a key from local authorities in advance. Check locally for current access conditions and what to expect before visiting.
The murals feature a dance of death composition where living and deceased figures appear in balanced pairing throughout. This symmetrical arrangement is unusual and gives the paintings a distinctive visual rhythm.
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