Église Saint-André

English translation

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History

The parish of "Saint-Andrea de Combis' is mentioned in ancient texts. A sanctuary preceded the church (late 12th century) then the establishment of a priory of the order of Saint-Augustine cited in the 14th century. This priory-cure depended on Saint-Vivien de Saintes. The buildings adjoined the church which was raised to create an apartment above the choir. The religious remained in these places until the 18th century. The square-plan bell tower, adjoining the south of the church, may date from the 15th century. The sacristy which follows to the east bears the date 1685. Restored in 1784 and in the 19th century, the church was then refitted inside in 1910-1911: walls, vaults and plaster. A simple nave of elongated plan terminated in an apse. The latter preserves some Romanesque elements concealed by the buildings of the old priory. The west portal has three mouldings, the last two being carved with lozenges and diamond points. A recess has been made to the left of the portal. Two statues frame the opening of the façade. The nave is covered with a barrel vault of broken curve in brick. The bay under the bell tower is on a crossing of ribs. The choir terminates in a cove vault. It is preceded by engaged columns with Romanesque ornament.