église Saint Guingalois

Church of St Guingalois, where Ronsard was prior. 11th-century crypt, 13th-century Gothic choir and 16th-century panelled nave. Listed 18th-century organs (not open to the public).

The Collegiate Church of St Guingalois, which became a parish church during the French Revolution, was built around 1070 to house in its crypt the relics of St Guénolé (St Guingalois), which had been brought to Château du Loir in 878 by Breton monks fleeing the Vikings. Devastated in 1051 and then ceded to the monks of Marmoutier in 1067, the church has a beautiful 13th-century Gothic choir and a panelled nave from the 16th century. The transept and bell tower date from the 19th century. The organs are listed and date from before 1719. Note: Ronsard was Prior of St Guingalois.