See Europe’s largest stained glass window

The German offensive of 1940 severely damaged the former 18th-century Saint-Pierre Church.

In 1949, among the town’s post-war reconstruction plans was the audacious proposal by the architect Yves Marchand for a circular nave 40 metres in diameter and 20 metres high with a freestanding bell tower connected to the church by a baptistery. Rebuilding started in 1951, and the new church was consecrated on 27 October 1956. The reconstruction of Yvetot lasted 14 years and completed in 1963 with the finishing of the bell tower.

The most distinctive feature of Saint-Pierre Church is its immense expanse of glass created by the stained glass artist Max Ingrand (1908-1969). Covering an area of 1,046 m², it shows, from right to left, the apostles and saints of the diocese of Rouen, leading towards the central bay where a blue heart-shape formed of angels surrounds the Crucifixion. It is considered to be the largest piece of stained glass in Europe.

Marvel at the largest stained glass window in Europe, created by Max Ingrand. Rebuilding started in 1951 and today, Saint-Pierre Church is very striking with its round shape and 45-metre-high bell tower. The crowning glory of Yvetot’s post-war reconstruction, Saint-Pierre Church’s doors are open for an audio-guided tour.