Collegiate Church of Saint-Vulfran, Abbeville, France

The Collegiate Church of Saint-Vulfran in Abbeville is built in a Flamboyant Gothic style. The construction of the church was started on 7 June 1488. From 31 August it was clear that funding would be an issue and thus the construction was ceased for some time. On 4 April 1520 Jean Crétel of Tours-en-Vimeu was commissioned to lead the work. The nave would be under construction until 1539. Construction resumed 120 years later when the choir was built in two years, from 1661 to 1663 in a more simplified style.

As the French Revolution took place, the church became a Temple of Reason and a feast was celebrated in honor of the Supreme Being on 8 June 1794. Catholic worship in the church resumed in 1803. The church was listed as a Monument historique in 1840.

The church was heavily damaged on 20 May 1940 by German bombings as part of the Battle of France in World War II. The restoration of the church was not completed until 1998.

References:

Wikipedia

Religious sites in France

User Reviews

Huw Sayer (2 years ago)
Wonderful Gothic front to what remains of this once fine church. Wasn't open when we visited (not sure if it ever is). It felt somewhat forlorn crammed between modern buildings and a busy road. But what remains has a rugged grandeur that's worth seeing.

Ross (2 years ago)
I like a bit of religious architecture but this isn't the best by a long shot. Interior not especially decorated, stained glass is abstract and unremarkable, and the exterior needs some love. Understandably subject to considerable war damage, but there's better examples and much prettier churches in other towns nearby - not worth the visit if you're just there for a look at the building (and Abbeville itself isn't much cop either).

S. R. (2 years ago)
A nice place to drive-through. Take any parking slot across from and make a break to visit the church.

Andreas Walder (4 years ago)
This is a really beautiful church where you can spend a few minutes in silence and enjoy the atmosphere.

C C (5 years ago)
Stunning gothic masterpiece.

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