Souvigné: Church, Lime Kilns and Wet Heathland

Souvigné brings together a church with a history spanning several construction phases, evidence of lime production and a rare area of wet heathland. It also has a municipal motorhome parking area with clearly stated limits on its facilities. Visitors looking for a place with a variety of cultural and landscape features can consider these separately: architectural history, historic operating practices, species and practical requirements for their own vehicle.

Église Saint-Michel: Construction Phases and Stained Glass

The Église Saint-Michel was first built in the 9th century, partially rebuilt in the 15th century and extended in the mid-16th century. Its history therefore spans several construction phases and centuries. The early origins, partial rebuilding and later extension can be distinguished chronologically.

The stained-glass windows also represent different periods. One window probably dates from the 14th century and depicts Saint Catherine and Saint Barbara. Four other stained-glass windows date from the 16th century. Thus, a probably older window depicting two saints stands alongside several windows from the 16th century.

Lime Kilns and Industrial History

Three lime kilns, built in 1855, 1864 and 1866, are located on the Imbertière industrial site. The construction dates mark the successive development of the facilities: nine years separate the first and second kilns, and two years separate the second and third.

The first and third lime kilns are documented as having operated until the 1930s. The first was put back into operation in 1941 during the war and permanently shut down in 1943. The dates therefore distinguish the construction years of the three kilns from their subsequent operating history: the information extending into the 1930s applies to the first and third kilns, while the restart in 1941 and permanent shutdown in 1943 refer to the first kiln.

Wet Heathland and Species

The wet heathland area in Souvigné is one of the few remaining areas with low-growing wet heathland habitats. Characteristic heathland species grow there, as do a few specimens of marsh gentian (Gentiana pneumonanthe). Thus, alongside the habitat itself, a specific plant species is also identified.

Among other species, common lizards, subalpine warblers, nightjars and bullfinches breed in or near the wet heathland area in Souvigné. This list of species thus connects plants and animals with the wet heathland and its immediate surroundings.

Motorhome Parking and Local History

A motorhome parking area is located along the Fare on Rue de la Mairie. It offers quiet, shaded parking spaces, but has neither a waste disposal point nor an electrical hookup. Visitors arriving by motorhome can take these specific conditions into account when planning their trip.

A few loges (traditional dwellings) are still preserved in Saint Jacques in Souvigné. Along with the Église Saint-Michel and the lime kilns, they form another distinct historical landmark in the village.

Discover more destinations: Paulmy, Villandry, Chouzé-Sur-Loire, Lémeré, Avoine, Saint-Règle, Bourgueil, Chambray-Lès-Tours

For the broader travel overview: Indre-Et-Loire.