Church of St. Pierre le Rond, Sens

In the heart of Sens, France, nestled along rue Émile-Peynot, stands the historic Church of St. Pierre le Rond, known locally as église Saint-Pierre-le-Rond de Sens. This ancient edifice, with its roots tracing back to the 13th century, is a treasure trove of history, art, and architectural marvels. Its name, le Rond, is derived from the unique round shape of its bell tower, distinguishing it from the now-lost Saint-Pierre-le-Donjon church. Despite facing numerous challenges over the centuries, this church remains a testament to the resilience and dedication of the community that surrounds it.

The Historical Journey

The Church of St. Pierre le Rond’s story begins in the 13th century, a period marked by its initial construction. The bell tower, a significant feature of the church, was erected in 1728. The church's history is intertwined with tales of survival and resilience, particularly during the tumultuous times of the French Revolution. In 1791, one of its bells, Rochette, was donated to the church of Sainte-Florence de Paron. During the Revolution, the church's priest, M. Rupier, had to disguise himself as a carter to escape persecution. The church itself was saved from destruction thanks to the efforts of two citizens, Macé and Thomas, who purchased it under the guise of converting it into a fodder storehouse, only to preserve it and eventually return it to its religious purpose.

Architectural and Artistic Splendor

The architectural evolution of the Church of St. Pierre le Rond spans several centuries, each leaving its mark on the structure. The grand nave, dating back to the 14th century, is a marvel of medieval architecture. The northern aisle, a product of the early Renaissance, was added towards the end of the 15th century. The 16th century saw the addition of exquisite woodwork, including the nave's wooden vaulting, which, despite being severely damaged by a tornado in 1971, remains a focal point of the church's interior.

Among the church's artistic treasures are its 16th-century boiseries and retable, a sacristy added to the northern aisle, and a collection of remarkable Renaissance stained glass windows. The church is also home to several classified pieces of furniture, including a mise au Tombeau, intricately designed wrought iron grilles marked with A M, and statues of Saint Romain and Saint Bernard. Additionally, visitors can admire a bas-relief of Saint Hubert, a statuette of Saint Anne, a Pietà, a statue of Saint Sebastian, and a painting of the Resurrection. The Renaissance era also gifted the church with 62 intricately carved stalls, adding to its historical and artistic richness.

The Venerated Stained Glass Windows

The stained glass windows of the Church of St. Pierre le Rond are particularly noteworthy. Some of these windows are attributed to Jean Cousin the Elder, a renowned artist of the time. These windows are so significant that Paul Deschamps, the director of the French Monuments Museum in 1927, had copies made by master glassmakers during World War II. These copies were created alongside those from other notable cathedrals and churches across France, ensuring the preservation of their intricate designs and historical value.

The Struggle for Preservation

Despite its historical and artistic significance, the Church of St. Pierre le Rond has faced numerous challenges in recent decades. It has been closed to the public since 1964 due to theft and degradation. However, maintenance efforts are ongoing, supported by the Monuments Historiques, the Bâtiments de France, the City of Sens, and the General Council of Yonne. In the 2000s, the bell tower was leased to a mobile phone operator, providing some financial support for its upkeep.

The plight of the church has not gone unnoticed by the local community. In 2014, concerned residents formed the association Sauvons notre patrimoine, l'église Saint-Pierre-le-Rond (Save Our Heritage, the Church of St. Pierre le Rond) to advocate for its restoration. In 2015, the City of Sens commissioned an expert mission to assess the church's condition, but the interior remains in a state of significant disrepair. Despite these challenges, the community's dedication to preserving this historical gem continues to drive efforts towards its restoration.

In conclusion, the Church of St. Pierre le Rond is not just a building; it is a repository of centuries of history, art, and community spirit. Its walls echo with stories of resilience and dedication, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of French history and culture. As efforts to restore and preserve this magnificent structure continue, it stands as a symbol of the enduring legacy of the past and the hopeful promise of the future.