EGLISE SAINT GERMAIN - LOUVIGNY

Of Romanesque origin, the church of Louvigny has undergone many transformations over the years. Among others, the altars and the altarpiece were donated in the 18th century by Mr François Thébault, a rich donor born in Louvigny. A commemorative plaque was erected in his memory in the sacristy of the church after it was found at the end of the 19th century by Abbot Chartrain, then parish priest, on the roof of his presbytery, in place of a tile. One can think that it was thus saved from the looting of the Revolution. The spire bell tower dates from the 19th century. It replaced a bell tower. It was also in the 19th century that the stained glass windows, the Way of the Cross and the baptismal font were installed. Generally made of stone, these are very original, as they are decorated in the Napoleon III style, the period in which they were made. They are made of cast iron and are undoubtedly a fine example of the industrial production of the time. The portal, typically Romanesque, is preceded by two steps in which are drawn an eight-pointed star and a cross. This may be a summary of the life of Christ, from the Star of the Nativity to the Crucifixion. Several elements classified as Historic Monuments have been restored in recent years, thanks to subsidies from the State and the Department of Sarthe, as well as the generosity of subscribers to the Heritage Foundation. Thus, the remarkable tabernacle of the high altar in gilded wood. Painted in faux marble in the 18th century, it is one of the largest tabernacles preserved in Sarthe The painting located just above, also superbly restored, and attributed to François Mongendre (1644-1690), representing Saint Germain d'Auxerre meeting Saint Geneviève as a child.