The municipality of Lapeyrère is officially launching an online fundraising campaign to finance the restoration of its Saint-Aubin church, formerly Notre-Dame.
The church of Saint-Aubin, a heritage gem that has stood the test of time.
A true heritage landmark of the village, this remarkable building has its roots in local history dating back to the 14th century. Mentioned as early as 1373 , the church has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries.
Thus, it has been a part of the lives of Lapeyrère’s inhabitants through the generations: baptisms, weddings, religious ceremonies, and key moments in community life.
Even today, it remains a powerful symbol of identity and a central element of the area’s rural heritage.
“The church gives a soul to the village. Believers or not, the vast majority of residents have expressed their desire to save it”
– Carole Delor, mayor of Lapeyrère.
A large-scale restoration project
However, the building’s condition is worrying. Rising damp, water infiltration, cracks, leaky stained-glass windows, a weakened roof, damaged bells, and a sacristy threatening to collapse : the problems are numerous and require swift intervention to prevent irreversible damage. The church, recognizable by its square bell tower and the adjoining former town hall , is an integral part of the village’s landscape and collective memory.
Led by the Lapeyrère town hall , with the support of the residents, the restoration project includes significant structural work:
- Wall waterproofing,
- Resumption of masonry work,
- Application of lime plaster,
- Partial roof repairs,
- Complete restoration of the bell tower roof,
- Restoration of the bell tower and bells,
- Restoration of the altars and stained glass windows.
The cost of the project
The total cost of the project is €301,358 . Thanks to support from the DETR (Local Development and Rural Planning Grant) , the Department , the Region , and the Volvestre Community of Municipalities , €241,358 has already been funded .
However, €60,000 still needs to be raised through the generosity of residents, associations, and businesses .
Beyond its religious function, the building will continue to welcome visitors, ceremonies and, eventually, cultural events , thus contributing to the vitality of the village.
To thank the donors, symbolic rewards are offered : public thanks, invitation to the inauguration, site visits, and, for the largest donations, use of the function room .
