Église Saint-Martin de Sartrouville

Perched gracefully atop a gentle hill in the charming French commune of Sartrouville, the Église Saint-Martin de Sartrouville stands as a testament to over a millennium of history, faith, and architectural splendor. This remarkable Catholic parish church, dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours, celebrated its thousandth anniversary in 2009, marking a millennium of spiritual significance and community presence.

The Historical Tapestry of Église Saint-Martin de Sartrouville

The story of the Église Saint-Martin de Sartrouville begins in the year 1009, likely initiated under the auspices of Robert II the Pious, who generously donated twenty houses to the nearby monastery of Argenteuil. This ancient church has witnessed the ebb and flow of history, its stone spire a silent sentinel through the ages. The original bell tower, which graced the transept, was reconstructed in 1369 after being destroyed by the Dauphin, the future Charles V of France, during the tumultuous Hundred Years' War. This period saw many bell towers in the Île-de-France region demolished to prevent them from serving as landmarks for English troops.

In 1865, the old cemetery that once surrounded the church was replaced by a presbytery, which was later transformed into the Museum of Sartrouville Traditions and Crafts in 1989. The church has been recognized as a historical monument since June 6, 1933, and boasts the unique distinction of having the only octagonal stone bell tower in the Île-de-France region. In 2022, the church embarked on an extensive renovation project, underscoring its enduring importance to the community.

Architectural and Artistic Marvels

The Église Saint-Martin de Sartrouville is not just a place of worship but a treasure trove of artistic and architectural wonders. One of its most significant pieces is the Charity of Saint Martin, a polychrome wooden statue from the 16th century, which was classified as a historical monument in 1965. This statue vividly depicts Saint Martin on horseback, cutting his cloak to share with a beggar, a theme that is frequently represented in various forms of art throughout the Île-de-France region.

The church is also illuminated by a series of stunning stained glass windows that date back to 1868. As you enter and move to the left from the central door, you will find the Baptism of Christ by Saint John the Baptist, a window donated by Jean-Baptiste Lefevre. Another notable window is dedicated to Saint Teresa of Ávila, a gift from Mr. Mallard, a member of an old Sartrouville family. The choir is adorned with windows depicting Saint Martin sharing his cloak with a poor man and Saint Vincent, the patron saint of winemakers. These windows are believed to be the work of a single master glassmaker, likely named Mena.

Memorials and Monuments

Near the south aisle and the choir, visitors will find a votive plaque dedicated to the Blessed Claude Duval, who was martyred on September 3, 1792, during the September Massacres of the French Revolution. This period was marked by significant religious turmoil in Sartrouville, with the local priest, Curé Finet, initially swearing allegiance to the Constitution in January 1791, only to retract his oath in May to remain true to his faith.

Another poignant piece within the church is a polychrome wooden statue of Christ, located in the north transept. This statue, which depicts Christ bound with ropes during the Passion, was classified as a historical monument in 1969.

A Vineyard Legacy

In front of the Église Saint-Martin de Sartrouville, the last remaining vineyards of Sartrouville are still cultivated, a nod to the town's vinicultural heritage. These vineyards, which once included varieties such as Gamay noir, Meunier, and Morillon, were largely destroyed by phylloxera in 1902. However, a few vines have been preserved in front of the church as a tribute to this tradition. In 2021, as part of a municipal initiative to promote urban nature, some of the aging vines were replaced, and the planted area was expanded from 5,200 square meters to 7,000 square meters.

Religious Services

The Église Saint-Martin de Sartrouville continues to serve its parishioners with regular religious services. The Sunday Mass is held at 9:45 AM, offering a time for the community to come together in worship and reflection within the historic walls of this venerable church.

In conclusion, the Église Saint-Martin de Sartrouville is not merely a historical monument; it is a living symbol of the town's rich heritage and enduring faith. Its walls echo the stories of centuries past, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Yvelines region of France. Whether you are drawn by its historical significance, architectural beauty, or spiritual ambiance, this church offers a unique glimpse into the heart and soul of Sartrouville.