A Special Encounter
Today we experienced something you cannot plan and will never find in a guidebook: a private tour led by the owner of the chapel himself. A remarkable 92-year-old gentleman, still full of energy, who married the heiress of this unique chapel. He went in to his beautiful home tot fetch a big key and openend the door of the chapel for us. With warmth and enthusiasm, he shared the history of the chapel, the families connected to it, and the many stories preserved here through generations.

Where Bellême Began
The chapel stands on the site where, around the year 960, the first fortified castle of Bellême was built by Yves de Creil, lord of Bellême. At the same time, he founded a basilica here dedicated to Notre-Dame. That foundation document is considered the first written mention of Bellême itself. In other words: without this place, Bellême might never have existed.

An Architectural Time Capsule
Chapelle Saint-Santin is remarkable because it contains traces of several centuries. The crypte date from the year 970 and the chapel from the early Romanesque period. Later, the building was modified during the 12th century and 15th century. The highlight of our visit lay quite literally underground. Beneath the raised choir is an ancient barrel-vaulted crypt, one of the oldest religious spaces in Le Perche. As I descended, it felt like stepping through time: first three steps, then six more, and finally one last step downward. At that moment I felt a genuine historical sensation. As if I was not simply entering a crypt, but walking directly into a thousand years of history. The old stonework and the traces of wall paintings created an unforgettable atmosphere.

From Revolution to Rescue
Like many religious buildings in France, the chapel went through difficult times. During the French Revolution, it was sold as national property and even used as a barn to store the hay of a nearby farm. Later, it was sold and preserved for future generations. Thanks to that rescue, the family and visitors today can still experience this extraordinary old place.

A Living Chapel
What makes this chapel even more special is that it is not only a monument of the past. Twice a year, Mass is still celebrated here, keeping its spiritual tradition alive. The owner comes here everyday tot pray. The chapel is also open to visitors during the annual Heritage Days (Journées du Patrimoine), offering a rare chance to discover this hidden treasure.