On the right bank of the Cher, in the very center of France, the Priory of Allichamps stands, the only visible remnant of a millennia-old life in the surrounding area. Located near Roman roads, the village of Allichamps existed until the end of the 19th century. 

The presence of Neolithic men, and later an entire village—up to 400 inhabitants—has been confirmed by numerous discoveries of objects and weapons in the now-cultivated fields. A necropolis with more than 1,100 graves was uncovered during construction work, as well as a funeral pyre, suggesting that it was a recognized place of worship from around 4000 BCE until the 17th century.

It was here that this building was constructed in 1150, probably on the remains of a Gallo-Roman villa, and later a sanctuary dedicated to St. Stephen in 450. The priory, with its bell tower dependent on the Augustinian abbey of Plaimpied, served as the church for the village of Allichamps. We have records of the life of this parish until 1792, after the French Revolution.

As for the discoveries, they were carried out by the last Prior, François Pajonnet, who was passionate about antiquities and unearthed numerous objects from past centuries. Notably, the column that marks the geographical center of France, which was once a milestone and later converted into a sarcophagus. There it stands in the middle of the village, in the middle of France, reminding us of our history.

The sale of religious buildings after the revolution led the priory to change hands from owner to owner, eventually ending up with farmers who transformed it into a hay barn. This likely helped preserve its walls… more or less.

In 1985, the commune of Bruère Allichamps purchased it, and in 1986, a handful of passionate volunteers began to rescue it from oblivion and restore it. Today, you can visit it and discover the wonders that have survived through the centuries. Built in the shape of a Latin cross, it features a very rich and moving choir. Stones from local quarries, varied capitals, including one very unique one that defines the identity of the place, mainly Merovingian sarcophagi, and an excavation pit that invites dreams of new discoveries.

Certainly, various incidents have damaged the structure: the collapse of the bell tower, fires. But enough remains for us to admire the craftsmanship of the builders. Outside, the apse is supported by discreet and charming buttress-columns, the roof is bordered by an egg-and-dart cornice, and whimsical and naive modillions.

On the west facade, a mysterious Gallo-Roman stele depicts a scribe or accountant. What is it doing here?

The simplicity of this building touches us and invites us to seek out its history, to imagine the events: baptisms, weddings, funerals, village life, the visit of the archdeacon of Bourges dispensing his advice (« a slab is damaged, take a tombstone to repair it, » « repair the marble of the altars »).

We imagine these small altars in the two apsidioles, one of which was unfortunately destroyed to allow a hay machine to pass through, while the animals did not pass through the door opened in the center of the apse!

Today, you can admire it in its elegant simplicity. From May to September, the Association of Friends of the Priory brings it to life with concerts (the acoustics are excellent), various performances, and presents exhibitions and tours.