Fontaine-Les-Grès brings together churches from different periods of construction and the industrial heritage of Doré-Doré. The Église Saint-Nicolas dates from the 12th century, while the Église Sainte-Agnès was built in 1956. The village’s development can also be viewed through the history of these two buildings: workshops, technical facilities, workers’ housing and a function hall were built on the Doré-Doré site in the early 20th century.
Two Churches, Different Building Periods
The Église Saint-Nicolas dates from the 12th century and was extensively remodelled in the 16th century. The Église Sainte-Agnès was built in 1956 by architect Michel Marot. Together, the two churches represent different building periods: Saint-Nicolas combines its medieval origins with later remodelling, while Sainte-Agnès is a church built in the mid-20th century. Comparing them makes their different periods clear without conflating their histories.
Floor Plan, Roof and Art at Sainte-Agnès
The Église Sainte-Agnès has a triangular floor plan. Its architecture combines the traditional building methods of Aube barns with the modern design of the period in which it was built. Notable features include a broad, overhanging roof with flat tiles and a slate-covered spire. The building brings regional building traditions and modern design together.
The interior furnishings are another distinctive feature: they include ceramic sculptures by André Dienis and painted panels made of corrugated industrial glass by Jean-Claude Vignes. Ceramic and industrial glass stand alongside the architectural forms as two distinct artistic contributions. The Église Sainte-Agnès can be visited by prior appointment only, so arrange your visit in advance.
The Église Sainte-Agnès was listed as a historic monument by decree dated 31 May 2010. The protection covers not only the church but also the forecourt, retaining walls and access ramps; the cadastral parcels concerned are AE 43 and AE 44. The protected area therefore includes features surrounding the church building.
The Doré-Doré Site
Between the end of the First World War and around 1930, the Doré-Doré site was considerably expanded. Large workshops were built during this period, along with a machine room with a heating system and chimney. The site also included workers’ housing and a function hall. The buildings thus reflect different aspects of industrial life: workspaces and technical facilities stand alongside residential buildings and a hall.
A tour of Fontaine-Les-Grès’s industrial heritage is available on request. It introduces the architectural traces of the Doré-Doré company and its connections to the village. The tour also includes the former village school building, which now serves as the town hall. As the tour is available on request, check the arrangements before your trip.
Visitor Information and Potatoes Sold Directly
In 2024, two visitor information boards were installed in collaboration with the municipality: one at the Église Sainte-Agnès and one at the Église Saint-Nicolas. The boards therefore relate to both churches, whose histories span different periods. When planning your visit, note the separate access restriction at Sainte-Agnès: visits there are by prior appointment only.
Another local speciality is La Fontainate’s direct potato sales. Potatoes are sold in 10- and 25-kilogram sacks. Excellency is suitable for chips, Monalisa is considered a versatile variety, and Gourmandine has firm flesh. The selection may change; check which varieties are currently available before purchasing.
Discover more destinations: Isle-Aumont, Montaulin, Soulaines-Dhuys, Onjon, Saint-Léger-Sous-Brienne, Saint-Thibault, Bar-Sur-Aube, Saint-Julien-les-Villas
For the broader travel overview: Aube.
