Eglise Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption

A place steeped in history and witness to several eras, Notre-Dame de l'Assomption church is a must-see for lovers of religious heritage.

Notre-Dame de l'Assomption church, built in the XVᵉ century, is a remarkable testimony to the architectural history of Parigné-l'Évêque. Listed as a Historic Monument since 1984, it features a harmonious blend of styles and periods.

Its shell, square tower and high transept date back to the Middle Ages, while its choir, round turret and external ornamentation reflect additions made in the early XVIIᵉ century. The more recent south aisle vaults were added in the XIXᵉ century.

Inside, several works deserve particular attention:

The Pietà, a highly expressive plaster sculpture from the XVIIᵉ century.
The north and south altarpieces, dating from the XVIIᵉ century, as well as the sculpted group of "The Education of the Virgin".
The carved panelling in the nave, dating from the XVIᵉ century, bears witness to exceptional Renaissance craftsmanship.
The wooden pulpit, built in 1623, and a carved chest from the XVIᵉ century, probably used as a lectern stand.
Another unusual fact: the first step of the transept door is an old gravestone, probably that of the parish priest Richard, reused after the adjoining cemetery was disused in 1622.

Finally, a Monuments Historiques poster dating from 1908 testifies to the protection efforts undertaken over more than a century to preserve this exceptional heritage.