Eglise Saint Pierre le Puellier (Saint Peter the Puellier Church), Tours

The Church of Saint Peter the Puellier, located just north of the Place Plumereau in Tours, is a site steeped in history and architectural heritage, albeit mostly in ruins today. Originally established in 512 by Clotilde, the wife of King Franc Clovis, this site once served as a collegiate church for an ancient monastery.

Throughout its history, the church underwent significant transformations. The most substantial building effort took place around 1170, culminating roughly a decade later. This construction embraced the Western Gothic architectural style, characterized by a nave flanked by side aisles, a transept, and an east-facing choir with a flat apse. It likely featured a bell tower with a spire at the transept's crossing.

During the French Revolution, the church was sold as national property and nearly destroyed. Today, only parts of it remain, including sections of a side aisle now converted into a residential dwelling. Specifically, the first and second spans of the north aisle survive, transformed into living spaces with a new floor dividing the space into two levels. One room still features its original Western Gothic vault.

Additionally, the northern wall of the second bay features two semicircular bays adorned with decorative cords, showcasing the original architectural details, whereas the bays lighting the east and south are modern additions. The visible capitals near the northeast of the building are preserved in their original state, contrasting with those to the southeast, which have been restored.

These architectural remains have been recognized as historical monuments since 1946, underscoring their cultural and historical importance despite the extensive destruction they have endured. The Church of Saint Peter the Puellier, in its current form, serves as a poignant reminder of the rich history that has shaped Tours, standing as a testament to both its medieval past and the tumultuous periods that followed.