Located in the Yonne region of Burgundy, the Church of St. Germanus in La Ferté-Loupière, built in the 12th century in the Romanesque style before being altered several times over the years, contains some magnificent, well-preserved mural paintings. These are not frescoes but paintings on dry plaster. Its Danse Macabre, produced in the late 15th and early 16th centuries, is one of only eight known to exist in France and is considered one of the most prestigious in Europe! Biblical scenes such as the Tale of the Three Living and the Three Dead, St. Michael slaying the dragon and the Virgin of the Annunciation can also be seen here.
The Danse Macabre at La Ferté-Loupière is an exceptional pictorial ensemble, spanning 25 metres in length and comprising 42 figures representing all strata of the social hierarchy. Because these burlesque scenes were rather impertinent, the ecclesiastical community demanded that the Danse be covered with whitewash, an initiative that ended up saving the work for posterity. It was rediscovered in 1910, and the church was listed as a Historic Monument the following year.
After visiting, be sure to take a walk in the priory garden by the church. Embellished with colourful perennials and aromatic plants, this haven of peace is an inviting place to stroll and meditate...
