The collegiate church, another landmark since 1059. Yet fire, wind and war have attacked the building several times. But defying the assaults of time and man's folly, the collegiate church of Saint-Pierre, a vestige of times gone by, has been standing for over 10 centuries.
The collegiate church of Saint Pierre, whose tall white tower can be seen from afar, has all the hallmarks of a cathedral. But this gigantic church, a landmark for pilgrims in centuries gone by and former church of the chapter of the canons of Aire, has been the parish church since 1802.
Listed as a historic monument in 1862, the collegiate church stands in all its splendour in the heart of the town. At first, it was simply the church of a chapter of canons founded by Beaudoin V, Count of Flanders, in the 11th century. The many wars that followed left their mark on the stone, notably during a bombing raid in August 1944, but it was always rebuilt according to its original plan.
The collegiate church of Saint Pierre, founded by Baudouin the Pious in 1059
was severely damaged by fire and was rebuilt in the 15th century. This vast flamboyant Gothic brick and stone building boasts a superb oak organ case dating from 1633, which came from Clairmarais Abbey.
Organised by the Aire-sur-la-Lys Tourist Information Centre, in partnership with the Aire Animation Patrimoine Association. Meeting point in the porch of the collegiate church.
Booking essential.
The collegiate church of Saint Pierre, whose tall white tower can be seen from afar, has all the hallmarks of a cathedral. But this gigantic church, a landmark for pilgrims in centuries gone by and former church of the chapter of the canons of Aire, has been the parish church since 1802.
Listed as a historic monument in 1862, the collegiate church stands in all its splendour in the heart of the town. At first, it was simply the church of a chapter of canons founded by Beaudoin V, Count of Flanders, in the 11th century. The many wars that followed left their mark on the stone, notably during a bombing raid in August 1944, but it was always rebuilt according to its original plan.
The collegiate church of Saint Pierre, founded by Baudouin the Pious in 1059
was severely damaged by fire and was rebuilt in the 15th century. This vast flamboyant Gothic brick and stone building boasts a superb oak organ case dating from 1633, which came from Clairmarais Abbey.
Organised by the Aire-sur-la-Lys Tourist Information Centre, in partnership with the Aire Animation Patrimoine Association. Meeting point in the porch of the collegiate church.
Booking essential.
