Discover Saint-Vincent-De-Paul

The Church of Saint-Vincent-de-Paul in Gironde and the Pont Eiffel, also known as the Pont de Cubzac, offer different perspectives on architectural history. The Marais de la presqu'île and walking routes at Lac de Saint-Vincent-de-Paul add further themes. If you are planning a stay in Saint-Vincent-De-Paul, you can explore these as distinct areas of interest: architectural history, land use, or paths by the lake.

Cultural Heritage and Architectural History

The Church of Saint-Vincent-de-Paul is listed in its entirety as a Monument historique; it was listed on April 16, 2002. The designation therefore covers the whole building. The church’s history includes two construction phases: in 1843, Ducouret rebuilt it at its current location based on plans by the architect Auguste Bordes; around 1862, the same architect extended the building. Massé was involved as the contractor. The time between the two phases makes it useful to consider the rebuilding and later extension as separate steps.

As a Neo-Gothic building, the church is characterized by sculpted decoration and zenithal lighting. The term “zenithal” describes light from above; alongside its sculptural design, the lighting is therefore another prominent feature. Style, sculpture, and lighting are distinct aspects of the architecture.

The Pont Eiffel, also known as the Pont de Cubzac, was rebuilt by Gustave Eiffel between 1879 and 1883. Its construction history therefore postdates the church’s rebuilding in 1843 and its extension around 1862. The two structures can thus be placed in context by looking at their different periods of construction.

Marshland and Landscape History

The Marais de la presqu'île is a marshland area between the Dordogne and the Garonne. At the end of the 16th century, the marshes were made available to the poor for hunting, fishing, and gathering. This use belongs to a different era from today’s efforts to preserve the landscape. Since 1872, the marshes have been managed by an intercommunal syndicate; Les Amis des Marais de Montferrand also contribute to their preservation. The landscape theme therefore encompasses both historical use and present-day management and conservation work.

Walking Routes at Lac de Saint-Vincent-de-Paul

The route at Lac de Saint-Vincent-de-Paul includes a circuit around the small lake. It is currently marked as impracticable. A route at the lake designated as a Balade à Roulettes® is designed as a short, peaceful walk for strollers or small bicycles, as well as for people with reduced mobility using a wheelchair; it too is currently listed as impracticable. The description of the route’s design and the note about its current practicability concern different aspects of planning. Check the route’s current condition before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Cérons, Biganos, Prignac-Et-Marcamps, Carcans-Plage, Saint-Martin-Lacaussade, Maransin, Arbanats, Villandraut

For the overview of the wider area: Gironde.