What progress has been made on the restoration of the basilica of Montligeon ? The National Heritage architect François Pougheol, in charge of the renovation, reports on the current status of the project, including the key restoration areas to be prioritize in 2025. We interviewed him on Thursday Feb. 13, 2025.
A project needed to preserve an exceptional heritage site
Notre-Dame de Montligeon’s basilica, an iconic place dedicated to prayer for the souls in purgatory, will soon undergo major restoration work. François Pougheol, the architect from the National Heritage responsible for the project, explains what is at stake with this restoration and describes the next steps.
“Although this basilica looks in good condition at first glance, explains François Pougheol, a second examination reveals a need for urgent restoration works. The building, which was completed at the turn of the twentieth century, deteriorated over time. In particular the lead guttering have cracked and since they are weaker, they no longer ensure their draining function. As a result, water gets into the inside structure, which might get compromised. Therefore, action is required to prevent further deteriorations.”
Phase 6 : The lower parts of the choir are in orange .
An ambitious project
with staged phases
The first phase of the project will involve the choir. “We have identified several priorities: the roofing will have to be renovated, the stonework will have to be consolidated and the stained-glass windows will need to be restored. Such interventions will secure the building whilst also restoring its original radiance.”
Renovating the roof
and the guttering
The roof of the basilica, which is in natural slates, requires complete renovation to ensure its longevity and protect the building from water seepage. We chose high-quality slates which will be fitted with traditional methods to ensure both the authenticity and the strength of the roof. Each tile is carefully laid in order to preserve the original aesthetics whilst reinforcing the watertightness of the roofing.”
The lead guttering has cracked over time and is another priority of the project. The purpose of this restoration is to ensure efficient drainage of rain water in order to protect the blockworks from water seepage. “The most damaged sections will be replaced, applying modern techniques to keep the water off the walls and avoid further deterioration.”
Consolidating the stoneworks
One of the major repairs aims at reinforcing the walls of the choir. Julien Chollet, master mason in charge of the restoration of the blockwork, explains his job: “Our goal is to ensure the strength of the whole structure with no compromise on the original materials, making sure that the traditional stone-cutting and pointing techniques are used in priority. We will also work on some of the weakened bottom wall plates in order to provide durable stability to the edifice.”
Restoring the stained
glass windows
The light shining through the stained-glass windows of the basilica is critical in the atmosphere of the place. However, certain panes have been damaged by rainfalls, requiring minute restoration. Cyril Gouty, a master glass-maker in charge of the restoration of the glass-stained windows describes the work involved: “We dismantle each pane very carefully. Then we clean and restore the damaged parts, scrupulously respecting the traditional craft techniques. Some pieces need to be faithfully reassembled in order to preserve the color matching standards and the original patterns.”
Completing the stained-glass windows restoration
The purpose of this last phase in the stained-glass restoration will be to adjust and secure each refurbished piece, making sure they blend seamlessly in the existing structures. “We will be careful to restore the initial radiance of the windows by scrupulously respecting the craft techniques used when they were created”, said Cyril Gouty. “Our aim is to get optimal light scattering through the works of art, taking into account the colors and the translucency of the glass. This will bring back the original radiance and enhance the spiritual atmosphere of the place.”
“This work will take place over a long period of time and each step is essential. Restoring an edifice of this magnitude demands both some exactness and respect of the architectural heritage.”
The repair work will be funded by the community
The basilica of Montligeon is more than a monument – it is a place for life and prayer. The community in charge of this plays a key part to maintain its heritage. “Any support from believers and donors is crucial. Thanks to their commitment, we are confident that the works will be carried out smoothly. Moreover, fund-raising campaigns and events have been organized to fund the restoration, explained Alexis Effroy, General Secretary of the shrine.
Lastly, Alexis Effroy insists on the importance of this project for future generations: “Our mission is to transmit this heritage in the best condition possible. Restoring the basilica is a way to honor those who built it and to allow those who will come after us to continue to worship there.”
Further reading:
An endangered basilica
Présentation des travaux (PDF in French to download) :
2022-04-12-Montligeon-Batisseurs-Esperance-Ambassadeurs
Several years will be needed to complete the restoration project. The goal is to rejuvenate this unique shrine with all its original radiance. Passion and determination will be key for this major project.
Last-minute update on the works of the basilica
Februray 20, 2025 : We’ve just received a letter from the French Regional Agency for Cultural Affairs allowing us to start the works (Phase 5, higher parts of the choir) beginning in the 4th term of 2025.
In the meantime we will secure the southern bell-tower by restoring the stained-glass windows, the bell muffles and the belfry.
