Sainte Marie-Madeleine
Neuilly-en-Donjon, France
Sainte Marie-Madeleine was built in 1130, when Neuilly-en-Donjon was part of the diocese of Autun, which included much of what is now Burgundy.
A Romanesque Treasure at Risk
Sainte Marie-Madeleine, built in 1130 in Neuilly-en-Donjon during its time as part of the diocese of Autun, is an exceptional example of rural medieval church architecture. With its austere single nave and iconic stone reliefs, the church is particularly renowned for its portal and tympanum, which have captivated scholars for over a century with their unique iconography. Despite its historical significance, the church faced serious structural challenges due to a heavier roof added in the early twentieth century. The additional weight caused cracks in the main façade and nave walls, further exacerbated by water infiltration and freeze-thaw cycles. These issues eventually led to the main façade separating from the nave walls, threatening the stability of this Romanesque treasure.
Our Work
Preservation Efforts and Lasting Impact
In 2000, WMF, with support from the Samuel H. Kress Foundation, began addressing the church’s conservation needs, leading to emergency restoration funded by the Robert W. Wilson Challenge in 2003. Restoration efforts included cleaning and modifying the roof to reduce its weight, consolidating wooden roof beams, repairing stone walls, and stabilizing the façade with stainless steel rods and lime mortar. The project successfully preserved the church’s Romanesque details, including its significant stone ornaments, and safeguarded the structure for future generations.
Click on the image block to the right to learn more.