Église de la Madeleine, known locally as église de la Madeleine de Mont-de-Marsan, stands as a beacon of historical and architectural significance in the heart of Mont-de-Marsan, the capital of the Landes department in France. Constructed between 1823 and 1831, this neoclassical marvel is a testament to the town's rich cultural heritage and religious devotion, and it has been listed as a historical monument since October 29, 1975.
The history of Église de la Madeleine is intricately tied to the very foundation of Mont-de-Marsan in the 12th century. From its inception, the town chose Mary Magdalene as its patron saint, a decision influenced by its location on the via Lemovicensis, a route to Santiago de Compostela that originates from the Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine in Vézelay, where the relics of Mary Magdalene are venerated.
The original structure on this site was a priory chapel dedicated to Mary Magdalene, built as part of the conditions negotiated by Abbot Sanche II Raymond in 1141. This agreement allowed Pierre de Marsan to establish his fortified town on land belonging to the Abbey of Saint-Sever. The chapel and the vicomtal castle were connected by what is now Rue Robert-Wlérick, a mere 78 meters long.
Over the centuries, the chapel underwent various changes and expansions. By 1660, the Abbey of Saint-Sever transferred ownership of the priory and its chapel to the Benedictine Abbey of Sainte-Croix in Bordeaux, which retained it until the French Revolution.
The original chapel faced a catastrophic event on April 6, 1821, when one of its pillars collapsed, leading to the destruction of the vault and part of the roof. This disaster necessitated the complete demolition of the old structure and paved the way for the construction of the current Église de la Madeleine.
The new church, oriented north-south, was designed by architect Augustin Arthaud, who was also responsible for renovating the entire neighborhood. Arthaud chose a neoclassical style, characterized by ashlar stones, a triangular pediment, and imposing columns, to harmonize the church with nearby administrative buildings such as the prefecture, the gendarmerie, the prison, and the courthouse.
Construction began in 1823, funded by donations from the townspeople and notable figures, including the Duke and Duchess of Angoulême and King Louis XVIII. During the construction period, the desacralized chapel of the Barnabites served as the parish church. The new Église de la Madeleine was consecrated on November 1, 1829, by Bishop Dominique-Marie Savy of Aire, with the final acceptance of the work occurring in January 1831.
Elements from the previous church were preserved and integrated into the new structure, including the statue of the Virgin and Child, the marble high altar, the altar of Saint Anne, the baptismal font balustrade, the chapel of Saint Peter, the grand organ, and the choir steles.
The interior of Église de la Madeleine is a visual feast, featuring a marble high altar from 1775 crafted by the Mazzetti brothers, surrounded by intricate woodwork. The main fresco, created by Madame Grimard-Baudet, is dedicated to Saint Mary Magdalene, reflecting the church's patronage.
The grand organ, originally from the Abbey of Saint-Jean de la Castelle, was relocated to Église de la Madeleine in 1792 after the monks went into exile during the French Revolution. This organ underwent a significant transformation into a romantic organ by organ builder Gaston Maille of Bordeaux in 1895. Subsequent restorations in 1929, 1965, and 1982 have preserved its majestic sound, and it is currently maintained by the association Les Amis de l'Orgue de la Madeleine.
The exterior walls of the church are adorned with medallions of two illustrious figures from the Landes region, crafted by local artist Cel le Gaucher. The north wall features Saint Vincent de Paul, founder of the Congregation of the Mission (Lazarists) and the Daughters of Charity. Mont-de-Marsan honors his legacy with a church named after him and chapels in the Layné and Lesbazeilles hospitals.
The west wall commemorates Abbé Joseph Bordes, a zealous priest who served as vicar at Église de la Madeleine before becoming the vicar general of the diocese. Tragically, he was deported to Buchenwald in 1943 and executed in 1944.
Église de la Madeleine remains a vibrant center of worship and community life in Mont-de-Marsan. Its historical significance, architectural beauty, and artistic treasures make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this charming French town. Whether you are drawn by its spiritual heritage, its role in the town's history, or its stunning neoclassical design, Église de la Madeleine offers a profound and enriching experience for all who enter its doors.
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