Eglise de Saint-Denis-d'Anjou

12th-century Romanesque church built on a rock and enlarged in the 16th century. The church is open to visitors all year round.

The 12th-century church remains the most prominent feature of St Denis d’Anjou. Built on a rock, much like a fortified castle, it has therefore always overlooked the village. It is characterised by its Romanesque style, which is particularly striking in its triple-arched portal with a sawtooth design. In the late 15th and early 16th centuries, the church was extended. This is why elements of the Gothic style are also present. At the foot of the church’s external steps, looking towards the portal, one notices that the final arch on the right is unfinished. This arch was cut off during the construction of the chapel, indicating that it was built later, namely at the end of the 15th century.

From the outside, one can see a tower that has formed an integral part of the church since its inception. The tower provides access to the belfry via a spiral staircase. There are three openings in the tower; these are arrow slits which were used to repel the enemy by firing arrows, for example. During the Hundred Years’ War, the English attacked the village in 1441. From then on, the inhabitants of Dyonis took refuge inside the church tower, which served as a fortified keep. They were eventually liberated by the lords of Anjou and Sarthe.

Inside the church, the 16th-century murals depict hagiographic scenes, inspired by the *Golden Legend* written by Jacques de Voragine. One of the church’s most notable paintings is the ‘Beheading of St John the Baptist’. The church of St Denis d’Anjou is listed as a Historic Monument.

Practical information: the church is always open; please feel free to step inside – the door is kept open for the public.
Further information is available from the Saint-Denis-d’Anjou tourist office.