Lézinnes: Church Architecture and Canal History

If you are looking for a hotel in Lézinnes, the local cultural and activity highlights can help shape your stay around your own interests. The focus is on the Church of Saint-Etienne, a monumental cross, and Lock 85 on the Canal de Bourgogne. The history of the area is complemented by an introduction to canoe and kayak navigation and a cycling connection on the Tonnerre–Ancy-le-Franc stage. The historic buildings offer different chronological and architectural points of reference.

Saint-Etienne and the Monumental Cross

The Church of Saint-Etienne has a nave divided into three bays and a side aisle on the left. A bay is a section of the church interior, so the number three describes the division of the nave. The choir is said to date from the 13th century, while the bell tower dates from the 16th century. Thus, a cautious estimate of the choir’s age sits alongside a clear century dating for the tower.

The year 1694 is engraved on the front of the base of the monumental cross. A crucified Christ and a Madonna and Child are depicted on its two sides. The inscription and the images offer different ways to appreciate the monument: a specific date on the base and religious depictions on the sides.

Canal History at Lock 85

Lock 85 on the Yonne section is called “Lézinnes.” It was established for the section of the Canal de Bourgogne that opened to traffic in 1832, from Pont-de-Pany to Tonnerre. From 1879, the lock was lengthened as part of its adaptation to the Freycinet gauge. The distinction matters when placing these events in time: 1832 refers to the opening of the canal section, while 1879 marks the beginning of the lock’s lengthening.

A building at Lock 85, known as Lézinnes, is of the “Poirée” type, has a rectangular floor plan, and features a roof with long slopes. While “Poirée” identifies the building type, the floor plan and roof shape provide further architectural details. This adds a closer look at the building’s design to the story of the lock’s development.

The washhouse in Lézinnes was built in 1874 by Brisebard, an architect from Tonnerre. It was built five years before the lengthening of the lock began in 1879. This comparison places two different construction projects in time: the washhouse and the later adaptation of the lock.

Canoeing, a Cycling Route, and Pétanque

At La Gravière du Moulin, Lézinnes Canoë-Kayak offers an introduction to navigating canoes and kayaks of various types. This is a specific activity for travelers interested in navigating the waterways. If you are making concrete plans, it is advisable to check the current offer.

On the Tonnerre–Ancy-le-Franc stage of Le Tour de Bourgogne by bike, Lézinnes is referred to as a “small port.” This adds a distinct cycling connection to the canoe and kayak offering: the cycling route places Lézinnes on its stage with a brief description.

A traditional pétanque doubles tournament is held at the Moulin de la Gravière in Lézinnes, hosted by the football club FR Tanlay. In doubles, teams of two compete. If the tournament is relevant to your travel plans, check the specific event dates.

Discover more destinations: Charentenay, Savigny-sur-Clairis, Chemilly-Sur-Yonne, Châtel-Gérard, Dicy, Ancy-Le-Franc, Lindry, Épineuil.

For the broader travel overview: Yonne.