ST JAMES THE GREAT CHURCH
This church, originally dating from the 12th century, is composed of a Romanesque apse in a hemicycle connected to a Gothic nave
Originally dating from the 12th century before being rebuilt in the 15th century, this building consists of a Romanesque hemicycle apse connected to a Gothic nave, a ribbed aisle and two chapels. It has historiated capitals, a 15th century pietà and font and outside a quadrangular bell tower. This church is remarkable for its marble portal and its carved tympanum. Dated from the 15th century, it is in neo-Romanesque style. The reliefs of the keystones forming the upper vault represent Christ, surrounded by the twelve apostles and two musician angels at the ends. Above, the figure of God the Father is placed in a niche. In the 16th century, this monument was fortified to be used as a firing post. In the 17th century, the lords of Beost take the title of lay abbot, their castle was probably connected to the church. Note: the modillions above the portal are inherited from the High Middle Ages, according to their typical naive forms. In addition, the church has a second door reserved for the cagots, pariahs of medieval society. Finally, it is the only church dedicated to Saint James in the Ossau valley, even though it is located on one of the roads to Compostela.
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