This former Augustinian priory-cure belonged to the priory of Notre-Dame des Salles-Lavauguyon, of the diocese of Limoges. It remained a convent until around 1560. The church was restored in 1862, as indicated by the engraved lintel on the south face of the bell tower. Built in local materials of Bajocian limestone and tertiary elements, this church consists of a single nave of three bays, followed by a narrow rectangular choir opening onto two modern side chapels. Inside, the nave is coated and currently covered with a lowered barrel vault from the 19th century. A possible apse, of modest size, could complete the building to the east. It was replaced by a large arcade built in the 19th century, closed by a wall in its lower part and a modern stained glass window in its upper part. From the choir, a 17th century door provides access to the south chapel, serving as a sacristy, while opposite an arcade pierced in the north wall allows communication with the north chapel. Outside, you reach the bell tower by means of a stone staircase then a metal miller's ladder leading to a high door, datable to the 17th century. From the top of this door, the rest of the bell tower has been redone and pierced with four modern arched bays. The facade is a complete reconstruction of the 19th century.
The Virgin with the Rosary.
Look for this painting on the wall to the right. It is very dark and well damaged; but, as it is, it attracts restoration in memory of its possible origins: either the Venetian school or the work of Murillo's workshop. The story says that in the middle of the 17th century, the ambassador of the King of Spain returning to his country fell ill in the area and was treated at the presbytery. As a thank you for the good care received, returned to his country, he asked Murillo, a great Spanish painter, for a replica of his painting The Virgin with the Rosary, exhibited today at the Goya Museum in Castres, and gave it as a gift to Saint-Sornin. .
THE CHURCH
St Saturnin's church was originally a priory depending on Notre-Dame of Salles-Lavauguyon, in Limoges diocese. If kept its conventual status until around 1560. Erected in fhe 11th century, It was restored in the 19” century. Two chapels were added to each side in the 17th century. They communicate with the rectangular choir through iwo archways. On the right wall, there hangs a dark painting in very bad repair. It is supposed to be a copy of Murillo's famous Virgin of the Rosary.