Coussay-les-Bois : Notre-Dame Church

The church dates from the end of the 11th century or the beginning of the 12th century and is particularly interesting because of its characteristics which differ from those usually found in the region. It has largely survived intact. In the 15th century, the old sanctuary was replaced by a square span with an edge vault, while two transept arms suppressed the old side gables. The side walls have been enhanced, probably to replace a flat stone roof resting directly on the vaults with a slate roof on frame, which hid the bottom of the bell tower. The vestiges of the old height of the walls are reported by fragments of cords and brusages. Subsequently, the bell tower, which had a four -sided roof, was surmounted by a needle -shaped arrow. The nave consists of a large span preceded by a smaller and elongated span that serves as a vestibule. Above, there is a small dome with sides cut with angles softened by adjustments in the masonry. The span of the nave, delimited by four robust angles surrounded by columns, supports a dome based on pendants. It is separated from the span of the bell tower by a small cradle back, which is also based on half a side arc. A third dome is in the span of the bell tower, having an octagonal shape with trumpets at the corners. Outside, the bell tower displays three blind arcatures, surmounted by two openings.