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Portail Saint-Martin

4.6
·491k reviews·Épernay, France

A surviving 12th-century portal and 13th-century church structure in Aubigny-sur-Nère, showcasing medieval architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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De frente

Portail Saint-Martin

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A surviving 12th-century portal and 13th-century church structure in Aubigny-sur-Nère, showcasing medieval architecture.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A must-see portal, one of the oldest monuments in Épernay, a must-see."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Details

Focus on the intricate carvings and architectural elements of the portal for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing some walking to reach and explore the portal and its surroundings. :athletic_shoe:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Portal

The Historic Portal

Aubigny-sur-Nère

Marvel at the surviving 12th-century southern lateral portal, a testament to medieval architecture.

Church Reconstruction

Church Reconstruction

Aubigny-sur-Nère

Admire the nave and aisles, dating back to the late 13th century, showcasing Gothic influences.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

While the Portail Saint-Martin is an outdoor monument, consider visiting during daylight hours for the best views and photo opportunities. Weekday mornings often offer a more peaceful experience, avoiding weekend crowds.

Getting There

Portail Saint-Martin is accessible by public transport. Research the best metro or bus routes from your accommodation to ensure a smooth journey. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the surrounding area.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Good for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Traveling to Paris soon? Add this to your list of places to see… its by far one of my favourite areas in the city 👏🏼🥹📍Canal Saint Martin #trending #parismustdo #travelparis #todoparis #paris #thingstodoinparis #pov #fyp #pourtoi #dayinmylife #recommendations #traveltips #Vlog
@alliegoodbun
306.2K likes • 4.1M views

📸 Capture the Details

Focus on the intricate carvings and architectural elements of the portal for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing some walking to reach and explore the portal and its surroundings. :athletic_shoe:

👉🏻10 Must-Do Activities in Epernay (Champagne Region!) 1️⃣Visit Eglise Notre Dame – A beautiful and historic church in the heart of Épernay. 2️⃣Stroll through Portail Saint Martin – The portal is one of the oldest monuments in Epernay, a must-see. 3️⃣Explore Hotel de Ville – This 19th-century mansion, once owned by the Auban-Moët family. 4️⃣Walk along Champagne Avenue – Take a tour of Boizel, one...
sparklingescapes
87 likes • 2.7K views
On vous emmène à la découverte de l'église Saint-Martin (évêque de Tours au IVeme siècle) à @aubignysurnere. Aujourd'hui, il ne subsiste que le portail latéral Sud de sa reconstruction au XIIeme siècle, la nef et ses bas-côtés remontent à la fin du XIIIe siècle. Durant la guerre de Cent Ans, l'église fût incendiée par les anglais à deux reprises. Elle fut par la suite restaurée et agrandie par l...
tourisme_sauldre_et_sologne
111 likes • 1.4K views

🗺️ Check Local Transport

Plan your route in advance using public transport apps for easy access. :iphone:

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Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Details

Focus on the intricate carvings and architectural elements of the portal for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing some walking to reach and explore the portal and its surroundings. :athletic_shoe:

🗺️ Check Local Transport

Plan your route in advance using public transport apps for easy access. :iphone:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate the historical significance and architectural details of the Portail Saint-Martin, recognizing it as a key remnant of medieval construction. While it's an outdoor monument, its historical context and the surviving elements of the Église Saint-Martin are points of interest for those exploring Aubigny-sur-Nère.

What People Like

Historical architecture
Medieval details
Church remnant

What People Dislike

Limited information
Can be overlooked

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Portail Saint-Martin is part of the Église Saint-Martin in Aubigny-sur-Nère. You can typically reach Aubigny-sur-Nère by car or bus. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information on getting to the town and then to the church itself. Instagram

Parking availability can vary. It's advisable to look for public parking areas in Aubigny-sur-Nère and then walk to the church. Researching local parking options before your visit is recommended.

While direct public transport to the portal itself might be limited, you can usually reach Aubigny-sur-Nère via regional buses or trains. From the town center, it's often a pleasant walk to the church. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Portail Saint-Martin is an architectural element of the Église Saint-Martin and is generally accessible as part of the church grounds. Entry to the church and viewing the portal is typically free, though specific opening hours may apply. Instagram

As the portal is part of a church, its accessibility is usually tied to the church's opening hours. It's best to check the specific hours for Église Saint-Martin in Aubigny-sur-Nère closer to your visit, especially if you wish to see the interior. Instagram

Typically, there is no admission fee to view the exterior of Portail Saint-Martin. Donations are often appreciated if you visit the church interior. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

For the best lighting and fewer crowds, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The golden hours can highlight the textures and details of the stonework beautifully. TikTok

Generally, exterior photography is permitted. However, if you plan to photograph the church interior, it's wise to check for any specific rules or ask permission from church officials. Instagram

Focus on the intricate medieval carvings, the architectural style of the 12th and 13th-century reconstructions, and the overall grandeur of the church's facade. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

History Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by medieval history and architecture, the Portail Saint-Martin offers a direct connection to the past. Its 12th-century origins and later 13th-century additions provide a tangible study of evolving architectural styles. The church's history, including damage during the Hundred Years' War, adds a compelling narrative layer. Instagram

Researchers and enthusiasts will find the portal a valuable point of interest for understanding regional medieval construction techniques and the impact of historical events on religious buildings. Consider bringing a field guide or historical notes to enhance your exploration.

Photographers

The Portail Saint-Martin presents a wonderful opportunity for photographers seeking to capture historical architecture. The intricate carvings and the texture of the ancient stone are particularly striking. TikTok

Aim for the 'golden hours' of early morning or late afternoon to capture the best light, which can dramatically enhance the details and mood of the portal. Exploring different angles and focusing on specific architectural elements will yield compelling shots. Remember to be respectful of the site, especially if visiting during church services. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Significance

The Portail Saint-Martin in Aubigny-sur-Nère is a significant remnant of the Église Saint-Martin, with its surviving southern lateral portal dating back to the 12th century. This portal is a key example of Romanesque architecture, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era. The church itself underwent further reconstruction, with the nave and its aisles originating from the late 13th century, reflecting the transition towards Gothic styles. Instagram

During the Hundred Years' War, the church suffered damage, including being set ablaze by the English. This history adds layers of resilience and historical context to the surviving structures. Visiting the Portail Saint-Martin offers a glimpse into centuries of architectural evolution and historical events that shaped the region. Instagram

When exploring, take time to appreciate the details of the stonework. The portal's design, though partially preserved, hints at its original grandeur and the artistic sensibilities of medieval builders. It's a tangible link to the past, offering a unique perspective on the region's heritage.

Historical Context

The Église Saint-Martin, of which the Portail Saint-Martin is a part, has a rich history stretching back to the 4th century, associated with Saint Martin of Tours. The current visible portal dates from a significant reconstruction in the 12th century, representing a period of renewed architectural activity. Instagram

The late 13th century saw further development with the construction of the nave and its adjacent aisles, indicating the church's importance and growth during the High Middle Ages. However, the church's history is also marked by conflict. It was notably damaged and set on fire by the English during the Hundred Years' War, a testament to the turbulent times it endured. Instagram

Understanding this historical backdrop enhances the appreciation of the Portail Saint-Martin. It stands not just as a beautiful piece of architecture, but as a survivor of centuries of change, conflict, and devotion. Its presence in Aubigny-sur-Nère connects visitors to the deep historical narrative of the region.

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