Beaufort's Bluestone Church and Pulpit

The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption is a 16th-century religious building in the village of Beaufort, in the Nord department, France. Even though the parish officially changed its dedication to the Assumption, locals and local history still fondly hold on to the name Saint-Lievin, which is linked to an old historic pilgrimage that used to take place there. Originally built of local bluestone, the church is a testament to the rich heritage of the Avesnois. A fortified bell tower: The bell tower of the building was once defended at each corner by a turret with a steeple. This particular architecture is directly related to the fortified churches of the Thierache, built to protect the local population from invasions. Initially covered with a thatched roof, the church was burned down several times over the centuries. In 1914, the German occupier melted down its two historic bells named Adele and Aimee Celine. The interior is notable for its finely carved wooden pulpit from 1699 and several 17th-century tombstones, some dating to around 1650, which together preserve the church's long devotional history The church is mainly open during ceremonies or heritage events. - AsNotedIn