Église Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption de Vouvant

Vouvant

One of the very first two churches in the Vendée listed as historic monuments, as early as 1840, on the list drawn up by Prosper Mérimée himself. Of the original building, consecrated in 1028 by Abbot Théodelin of Maillezais, only three ruined bays survive; but the choir, the apse, the two apsidal chapels and the north portal do indeed date from the second half of the 12th century. This portal bears a carved capital depicting the fairy Mélusine in the guise of a twin-tailed mermaid — the founding legend of the village, where it is said she had the castle built in a single night, of which only the tower bearing her name survives today. In 1242, King Saint Louis came in person to give thanks in this church after his victory over the lords of Lusignan, the legendary descendants of the fairy herself.

Getting there : Free admission

Opening times and access details are given as a guide only: check before you set out.

Ambient sound