The Collégiale de Saint-Bonnet-le-Château, nestled in the Loire region of France, has recently been selected as one of the sites for the upcoming Loto du Patrimoine 2025. This initiative, spearheaded by Stéphane Bern, is dedicated to raising funds for heritage sites at risk of destruction.
On March 18, 2025, it was announced that the Collégiale de Saint-Bonnet-le-Château would represent the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in this year's Loto du Patrimoine. Alongside the selection of this historical gem, exceptional assistance is being allocated to Mayotte following the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido.
The Collégiale, which dates back to the 15th century, is notable for its stunning crypt featuring murals from the same period. Additionally, it houses an 18th-century library containing over 2,000 ancient books, attracting around 12,000 visitors annually. The site's rich history and cultural significance highlight the urgent need for its preservation.
In 2023, a thorough assessment revealed significant deterioration issues, particularly regarding the beautifully painted murals. The diagnosis highlighted critical problems, including water infiltrations within the roof, which have led to damaging humidity affecting the structure. As reported, some of the stained glass windows are also broken, adding to the concerns.
In response to these challenges, restoration work commenced last year, aimed at consolidating the painted decorations in the crypt and establishing a ventilation system to combat humidity. The current goal is to undertake comprehensive restoration actions that will include reinforcing the parquet floor of the library, repairing the roofs, and restoring both the entrance porch and the Saint-André chapel.
Looking ahead, further phases of restoration are expected, particularly resolving the humidity problem within the crypt, which is crucial for preserving its delicate murals. The preservation work is anticipated to commence by the end of this year and could extend until 2036, reflecting the extensive efforts needed to restore this historic site.
The financial figures regarding how much funding will be allocated to each selected site will be disclosed during the upcoming Journées du Patrimoine in September. The Loto du Patrimoine initiative, launched in 2018, has been instrumental in saving 980 heritage sites to date, symbolizing a significant commitment to safeguarding cultural treasures across France.
As restoration efforts continue, the importance of protecting sites like the Collégiale de Saint-Bonnet-le-Château cannot be overstated. They hold not only architectural beauty but are also vital pieces of history that tell the stories of past generations. The combined efforts of the Loto du Patrimoine and local communities aim to ensure these stories are preserved for future generations.
Overall, the restoration of the Collégiale de Saint-Bonnet-le-Château stands as a testament to the ongoing struggle and determination to protect France's rich heritage amidst modern challenges. The path ahead may be long, yet the dedication to revitalizing this historical landmark embodies a broader cultural commitment that resonates throughout the nation.
