Our Lady

The village’s name is closely linked to its religious history. Derived from the Picard language, the place name ‘Capella’, meaning ‘chapel’, suggests that the first group of dwellings was clustered around a place of worship. Several sources indicate that this site was dedicated to the Virgin Mary at a very early stage. 

First recorded in the 13th century, the village, which fell under the bailiwick of Aubigny-en-Artois, gradually expanded over the centuries and, by the 18th century, had incorporated the hamlet of Fermont.

The Church of Notre-Dame de Capelle-Fermont was built in the 11th century and still bears characteristic features of Romanesque architecture, recognisable by its semicircular arches. 

In the 16th century, it was rebuilt and remodelled to incorporate defensive elements. The nave was then raised to fortify the building, whilst a refuge chamber was fitted out above it to shelter the population in times of unrest.

But what makes the church truly unique are its two bell towers, known in Picard as ‘campenards’. One can be glimpsed at the level of the choir’s triumphal arch, whilst the second, dating from the 13th century, adorns the western façade.

The interior of the church surprises with its brick vaults and invites visitors to discover furnishings dating from the 18th century, as well as to seek out traces of its ancient architecture.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)