The church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine de Montchauvet is a 12th century Romanesque building that suffered greatly. It is distinguished by its choir, square bell tower and southern gate. Built in 1137 in the new city founded by Louis VI and the Count of Montfort, it preserves several Romanesque elements: south gate with arches in full hangar, choir and transept of the twelfth century, bedside with semi-circular apses. The ensemble, representative of the Romanesque style, is best known for its southern portal, one of its most remarkable elements.
About nine centuries old, the church suffered many damage. The nave was partially destroyed, giving the building an incomplete silhouette. The square bell tower of 1137 was destroyed in 1910 by an accidental explosion and rebuilt. Enlisted in the Historical Monuments since 1991, the church was the object in 2025-2026 of a heavy restoration: renovation of the structure, blankets and masonries.
The church is part of the diocese of Versailles and the parish group of Bréval–Dammartin-en-Serve. It is one of the two churches of the diocese dedicated to Sainte-Marie-Madeleine. Prior to the work, she hosted regular Sunday Masses and major liturgical feasts. Since the construction site, the cult has been punctual: in 2025, only a few celebrations took place, including the employers' feast on 22 July. As the nave is in ruins, the capacity for reception is reduced; Masses are held in the choir, with the transept and the bedside in support. Some celebrations can take place in front of the southern gate.
France Terre de Clochers heartily supported this tried church. The maintenance of masses in difficult conditions bears witness to the Christian hope, and the association encourages people engaged locally to safeguard the essentials.
