A private chapel on private property

We had already seen the church or chapel of Nancelle, a hamlet near Mâcon from a distance.

Saint-Martin - Nancelle

The chapel however is located on private property and in private hands, and a sign “Beware of the dog” certainly stopped us from sneaking in any further. Recently I heard from van Boxtel, that he had contact with the owner, and that he was invited to visit the chapel.
However, he does not exactly live next door, and he had mailed the owner that he could not make it to France this year anymore, but that he knew someone who lives in the neighbourhood and who is also interested in the subject. We received the phone number, made the call, and we could pop by the same day.

The cupola on squinches

The owner and his wife were a very amiable couple. I was allowed to photograph to my heart’s content, we were given a very interesting tour in and around the chapel, were told the history of the place and were assured that we could freely use the pictures I had taken and the brochure he had composed. Hence this picture album! And if we wanted to know anything at a later time, we should not hesitate to give him a call.

Interior Saint-Martin - Nancelle

Of course it was very convenient to have an invitation.
However, I am convinced that those who are really interested in this little Romanesque gem, and who take the trouble of finding their way to Nancelle will find the owner most likely more than willing to give those who ring the bell at the gate the same treatment we received!

Detail of the bell tower

The Mâconnais, not far from La Tuilerie de Chazelle boasts a rich collection of Romanesque churches.