Water, Stone, Vine...
the organ
This fine instrument, built in 1610, was created by three local artists, Jehan Ravary, Jehan Roy and Jehan Sourt. The carpentry and casework are remarkable.
At the top of the case, the angel of the Last Judgment blows his trumpet. Beside him, St. Peter and St. Paul can be recognized by the key and sword. At their feet, sculpted in bas-relief, are three coats of arms. On the left, the coat of arms of the Clermont-Tonnerre family, with two keys in saltire. In the center, three fleurs-de-lis represent the coat of arms of France. On the right is the eagle of Paul V Borghese, Pope from 1605 to 1621.
The six dates inscribed in cartouches summarize the important stages in the life of this instrument: manufacture, restoration, relocation. The organ is supported by two fluted pillars reinforced by curious caryatids. The figures are composed of a moustachioed man's head on a winged woman's bust terminated by a whip-like lion's tail and clawed paws.
Originally located at the bottom of the nave, it was moved in 1847 to the back of the nave, opposite the high altar. In this new position, it conceals the location of the 12th-century Romanesque portal, which was incorporated into the west wall.
Find out more about Saint-Pierre Church
Presentation and history of Tonnerre
Tonnerre first appeared in Roman times as Tornodurum, meaning "fortress". For the Lingons, it was the capital of the Pagus tornodorensis. Here, in the Armançon valley, the County of Tonnerre was created, and served as a crossing point between Paris and Dijon, at a time when the King of France had designs on the Duchy of Burgundy. [read more]
Tonnerre Town Hall
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