Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church in Valence

This Catholic church is located on the highest point of the town and is the heart of Saint Jean’s Square. A strategic location that suggests this religious edifice has stood here for centuries, perhaps even as far back as Roman times or the Early Middle Ages. The present church was built in the 19th century, but it is certain that an earlier church stood here long before, but was damaged during the Religious Wars and then during the Revolutionary period, forcing the construction of a new building to replace it. It would appear, however, that part of the bell tower is a genuine vestige of the 12th century, although its appearance has been modified over time to display a neo-Romanesque style very different from the original. The stained glass windows, destroyed during World War II, were recreated and replaced in 1945. Listed as a historic monument, the Saint-Jean-Baptiste church is an undeniable part of Valence’s history. On the same square, you’ll also find the Halles Saint-Jean, the large metal structure on your right. Created in 1899 by the valentinois architect Eugène Poitoux. These halles liven up every Tuesday afternoon to offer local specialities. Keep walking along the little street that runs alongside the church on your left, and you’ll arrive to Charles Huguenel square. There you’ll see a large building called La Comédie, which has been a national drama center since 2001.