Balade à Hermonville

‘2 fleurs’ village in bloom
A 12th-century gem, the church of Saint-Sauveur (a listed historic monument) impresses by its remarkable design, sadly tarnished by the ravages of the First World War. While the exterior is marked by the beauty of its narthex in the Champagne style, a huge porch covering the entire façade, the interior is not lacking in treasures either, with its furniture from a donation to Reims by Mary, Queen of Scots. Altar, pulpit and organ case are of great beauty. This is where Joan of Arc came to hear mass when she was staying at Hermonville. Also worth visiting are the oldest houses built of burge, a local freestone, the statue of Saint-Eloi which adorns a character property, and the private washing-place.