La polémique autour de la démolition des églises : le cas du Maine-et-Loire

Abstract

The region of Anjou witnessed considerable religious fervour during the 19th century, leaving today a stock of church buildings corresponding with the needs of the population of the time. The buildings are an interesting reflection of evolving tastes, from neo-classicism to eclecticism. They are the creations of local architects who, at the time, produced buildings which were much appreciated and admired. Lack of proper understanding and some errors of appreciation have unfortunately led to some of these churches being demolished. The analysis of the Maine-et-Loire department, and the examples examined, give an overview of the present-day situation, where better hopes of keeping these 19th-century churches can now be entertained.

Keywords

• Alfred Tessier
• Anjou
• architect
• at Valanjou
• Bell-towers
• Charles Joly-Leterme