Honfleur - Sainte-Catherine Church
Upside down church
Sainte-Catherine's Church (Église Sainte-Catherine) is a significant landmark in Honfleur. Known for its unique construction and remarkable history, it is the largest wooden church in France. After the Basilica of Lisieux, it's the second most visited church in Normandy.
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The church is distinctive due to its separate bell tower, which was constructed away from the main building to minimize the risk of fire. This was a common practice in the Middle Ages when bell ringing could produce sparks, which could cause a fire in a wooden building.
The main part of the church was built in the second half of the 15th century, right after the Hundred Years' War. The construction was primarily handled by local shipbuilders, which is reflected in the building's design. The structure of the church resembles the hull of an upside-down ship, indicating the town's long standing maritime history.
The church is double-aisled, with the first aisle being the oldest part. As the population of Honfleur grew, a second nave, mirroring the first, was added in the 16th century, complete with a series of uniquely shaped pillars formed out of a central beam with four attached quarter-round mouldings.
The interior of the church is as impressive as its exterior. The woodwork, the ancient benches, the 15th-century fonts, the 17th-century organ loft, and various artworks contribute to its charm.