Église Sainte-Radegonde, Giverny

Church in Giverny

Pierre De Ste Radegonde Giverny
Pierre de Ste Radegonde Giverny
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Camille56

Église Sainte-Radegonde is one of the best places to visit in Giverny for travellers seeking quiet reflection and a deeper connection to the village's artistic heritage. This peaceful Romanesque church, set slightly away from the main tourist path, offers a calm retreat with centuries of history in its stone walls. Its modest silhouette, semicircular apse, and vaulted choir reflect its 11th-century origins, while the later Gothic additions create a harmonious blend of styles.

This spot is a great place to visit on a walking tour of Giverny, especially for those who want to see the place where Claude Monet and his family are buried. The surrounding cemetery, with its simple white marble tombs and quiet greenery, adds a poignant dimension to any visit. Here, away from the crowds, you can appreciate both the village's spiritual roots and the environment that inspired generations of artists.

History and Significance of Église Sainte-Radegonde

Église Sainte-Radegonde dates back to the 11th century, making it one of the oldest structures in Giverny. The semicircular apse and vaulted choir are among its earliest surviving architectural elements, reflecting classic Romanesque style with simple lines and solid forms. In the 15th century, the church underwent significant expansion, which introduced Gothic features including a wooden vaulted nave and an octagonal bell tower.

The church’s patron, Sainte Radegonde, was a 6th-century queen renowned for her piety and charity. Over the centuries, the church dedicated to her became a spiritual anchor for the community. Inside, a collection of statues and artworks spanning the 15th to 17th centuries reflects the evolution of local devotion and artistic expression. These include a 15th-century Virgin and Child, a figure of Sainte Radegonde, a 16th-century statue of Saint Quentin, and a painted wooden altar depicting the Transfiguration of Jesus.

One of the most significant aspects of the church today is its cemetery, where Claude Monet and his family are buried. The painter’s simple white marble tomb, marked with a cross, draws visitors from around the world who come to pay tribute to the man who captured the landscapes surrounding the village in luminous strokes of colour.

Things to See and Do in Église Sainte-Radegonde

Inside the church, take time to appreciate its wooden vaulted nave, calm atmosphere, and collection of historic artworks. The painted 17th-century altar is a highlight, offering a rare example of religious craftsmanship in rural Normandy. The stained glass windows depict the Virgin and Child, Sainte Radegonde, and Saint Roch, adding gentle colour to the softly lit interior.

Outside, the cemetery invites quiet reflection. Monet’s tomb is simple but significant, offering a moment to honour the artist’s legacy in the very landscape that shaped his imagination. Many visitors also enjoy the gentle walk from the village centre to the church, passing stone walls, gardens, and peaceful lanes that evoke the pastoral charm Monet loved.

The setting makes the church an ideal place for photographers, history enthusiasts, and travellers seeking a slower pace. The combination of art, architecture, and emotional resonance gives the church a unique role in Giverny’s cultural tapestry.

How to Get to Église Sainte-Radegonde

Travellers generally arrive in the region via Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport or Paris Orly Airport, both offering easy onward travel to Normandy and the village of Giverny. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Giverny on Booking.com.

By train, the most convenient route is from Paris to Vernon-Giverny station on the Paris-Rouen line. From the station, shuttle buses, taxis, or bicycles connect visitors directly to Giverny and the church area. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.

If travelling by car, follow the well-marked routes from Paris or Rouen into Giverny. Parking is available in the village, though reaching the church itself requires a short walk. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Église Sainte-Radegonde

  • Suggested tips: Visit early or late in the afternoon for the quietest atmosphere.
  • Best time to visit: Spring and summer, when the surrounding village paths are at their most picturesque.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free to enter.
  • Opening hours: Generally open daily, though hours may vary with local services.
  • Official website: Check local parish or tourism listings for details.
  • How long to spend: Around 20-40 minutes, depending on interest.
  • Accessibility: The entrance is accessible, though the cemetery paths can be uneven.
  • Facilities: Limited facilities at the church; cafés and services available in the village.
  • Photography tip: Capture the church façade with the surrounding greenery or photograph the nave’s wooden ceiling inside.
  • Guided tours: Occasionally included in local walking-tours of Giverny.
  • Nearby food options: Restaurants and cafés are available in central Giverny, a short walk away.

Where to Stay close to Église Sainte-Radegonde

For an elegant stay in the heart of Giverny, Le Jardin des Plumes offers refined rooms within walking distance of the church and Monet’s garden. Travellers arriving by train may find Hôtel Normandy Vernon a convenient option near Vernon station. For a quiet countryside retreat, Le Clos de l'Ambre provides charm, comfort, and proximity to Giverny’s cultural sites.

Is Église Sainte-Radegonde Worth Visiting?

Yes, Église Sainte-Radegonde is one of the things to do in Giverny that provides meaningful insight into the village's history and its connection to Monet. Its Romanesque architecture, peaceful surroundings, and the presence of Monet's tomb make it an evocative and rewarding stop for anyone exploring Giverny.

FAQs for Visiting Église Sainte-Radegonde

Is the church free to enter?
Yes, the church is free and open to the public.

Is Monet really buried here?
Yes, Claude Monet and several family members are buried in the adjacent cemetery.

Can I walk from Monet’s house to the church?
Yes, it’s a pleasant walk of around 10-15 minutes through the village.

Are photos allowed inside?
Photography is generally permitted, but be respectful of services or visitors at prayer.

Is the church still active?
Yes, it hosts occasional services and remains part of the local parish.

How crowded does it get?
Usually much quieter than Monet’s garden, especially in the morning.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, though supervision is recommended in the cemetery.

Are there guided tours?
Some local tours include the church in broader visits to Giverny.

Is there seating inside?
Yes, pews are available for quiet reflection.

Is it open year-round?
Generally yes, though hours can vary in winter.

Nearby Attractions to Église Sainte-Radegonde

  • Claude Monet's House and Garden: Explore the painter's restored home and his famous water garden.
  • Musée des Impressionnismes: A modern museum showcasing Impressionist and post-Impressionist art.
  • Old Mill of Vernon: A picturesque riverside mill ideal for photography.
  • Château de Bizy: An elegant estate with grand salons and landscaped gardens.
  • Giverny’s village paths: Scenic walking routes lined with flowers, stone walls, and charming houses.

The Église Sainte-Radegonde appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Giverny!

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Visiting Église Sainte-Radegonde

Address: Église Sainte-Radegonde de Giverny, Rue Claude Monet, Giverny, France
Giverny: 0 km

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