TEMPLE OF COLLET DE DÈZE

"Construction of the temple began in 1646, making it the oldest temple in France. The inhabitants donated it to the Marquise de Portes as a sign of their submission to the monarchy. She obtained from Louis XIV that the temple would not be destroyed. During the repression of Protestantism, the temple served as an arms depot for royal troops and gradually fell into ruin. During the 18th century, it was used as a barn and then a granary. It is the only temple to have survived the Revocation of the Edict of Nantes. During the Revolution, the temple was confiscated and sold as national property. The inhabitants bought it back, restored it, and worship could once again be celebrated there in 1803.

The building is made of irregularly sized masonry stones and covered with a visible timber frame supported by a large, fully dressed stone arch. Access is via a three-flight staircase.”

Information sourced from the Mérimée database