Lignières: Then and Now

Here we see the Temple de Lignières (Place de l'Eglise, RACN 010-6456-00197) from the southwest, in a view from the cemetery which adjoins the church. Note the Gothic arch entrance to the original medieval chapel at the base of the bell tower (more easily visible in the “now” picture. but present in both) which is said to date from 1493 or earlier.

I cannot date the “then” photo, but it must be later than 1912, since the tower of the post office (Rue du Montilier 9, RACN 010-6456-00046), built in that year, is visible in the background at the right. Comparison with the view at the last stop, from a card mailed in 1917, reveals no obvious changes. If I had to guess, I'd say this photo may be earlier because the trees don't seem to be as large, but seasonal changes and meticulous pruning can be deceptive, especially when you're comparing two views from such different angles.

The sundial on the southwest face of the bell tower is a fairly recent addition; it was present when I arrived in village in 1992 but I have not been able to establish the date nor story of its construction. Note how it incorporates the compass from the coat of arms of Lignières (left) into the gnomon at the top of the dial.