European Heritage Day - Visit to the church of Notre Dame de l'Assomption Lanslebourg

Val-Cenis

ND de l'Assomption Church in Lanslebourg - Jean François Durand

Although the church was built between 1820 and 1830, it remains true to the Baroque spirit, embodying the contrasts associated with the age: an austere exterior concealing a richly decorated interior. You'll be surprised by the harmonious mix of works of art from across the centuries.

Description

The old church, which stands on the other side of the street, had become run down and was too small so the local residents decided to build a new, bigger one: it has three naves, including a central nave surmounted by a majestic dome.
But fear not: you can't erase the past that easily! The old church was preserved and converted first to a school, then a courtroom and later a cultural space, and can still be visited today. Thankfully, its furniture has also been preserved and transported to the new place of worship. Four baroque altarpieces, in particular, featuring polychrome wood and gold leaf, carved from Swiss pine - a resinous tree that you'll find throughout the valley - await you...
One village, two churches: come and discover this amazing union!