Church of Saint-Quentin, Wirwignes

The Church of Saint-Quentin is a unique example of popular art in the Naïve Art strain of Douanier Rousseau at the end of the 19th century.

About this building

It is the work of Father Lecoutre (1830-1906) who, returning from a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, created this unusual decoration of his church in the Pas de Calais. It is an astonishing décor mixing oriental colours and accents with western marbles and stone. He used an art that was free of the classical codes, multiplying the furnishings and statues, and inserting Biblical quotations in the walls and vaults. The building became a catechism for the partially illiterate population at the time. The priest wished to help his parishioners to absorb Bible teachings.

For more information on this building visit https://openchurches.eu/en/churches/saint-quentin-wirwignes-ndf

Key Features

  • Architecture
  • Monuments
  • Interior features
  • Atmosphere / quiet space
  • Churchyard

Visitors information

  • Ramp or level access available on request
  • Car park at the building

Other nearby buildings

Wikimedia Commons/Jacques Rocquet

Church of Saint Martin, Samer

Church of Saint Martin in Samer is protected as a Historical Monument. St. Martin of Samer, an ancient 12th century abbey-church (abbatial) is hidden behind the houses built against its facade. It is the only church in France that has kept this picturesque medieval architectural particularity. Within, the volumes of the church, today the parish church, and in the gothic style are to be admired.