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Sainte
Capraise church in Eymet dominates the
entire village, as much by the considerable
size of its nave as by its setting at the
top of a knoll. It consists of a choir in
the apse, preceded by the entry to the
choir, both Romanesque, a nave with three
spans, probably from the 15th century,
itself preceded by a tower-porch from the
19th century. At the east, the low bulk of a
three-lobed 19th century sacristy surrounds
the apse.
The church door is decorated with five archivolts and opens onto
a gothic, rib-vaulted nave. The Romanesque pre-chancel is
covered with a magnificent cupola supported by pendentives. The
church has a semi-circular apse and a modern porch-belfry topped
by an arrow-like spire. The sanctuary is decorated with
magnificent capitals, two of which, depicting the Last Supper
and the washing of Jesus’ feet, are amongst the most interesting
of the Périgord. Beautiful furnishings include, among many other
items, a 17th century pulpit which comes from St Jacques’ Church
in Bergerac, attractive 18th century woodwork, and a Station of
the Cross donated to the church by the Empress Eugenie. Sixty or
so chairs are stamped with the manufacturer’s details and the
date 1856. Two leather-bound prayer books, including one in
polychrome, and a chasuble and cope both edged in gold have been
lent to Eymet Museum. |
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