Monhoudou can be explored through two specific themes: the architectural and artistic history of the Église Saint-Hélier, and walking routes of 1.4 and 7.4 kilometres. The Moire and Gravée waterways also pass through the area. Together, the heritage, different route lengths and landscape features provide a framework for shaping your stay around your own interests.
Architectural history and features of the Église Saint-Hélier
The Église Saint-Hélier has a Latin cross floor plan and a bell tower with a saddle roof, characteristic of religious buildings in the Saosnois. Its history probably dates back to the 11th century. The defining historical period was the 15th and 16th centuries; the church underwent extensive renovations in the 18th century. Several clearly distinguishable building phases can therefore be seen side by side.
The church’s features extend the view beyond its architecture. It contains several polychrome terracotta statues from the 17th century, including a Saint Roch and a depiction of the Education of Mary in the nave. An altarpiece from the 17th century, brought from the former Abbey of Perseigne, is also found here. The carved wooden tabernacle bears the date 1672 and the signature “Thomas Poupri d’Alençon”. These objects can be considered in terms of their different aspects: material, origin, date and signature.
The sacristy houses a four-door cabinet dated 1737. It was listed as a protected movable cultural property in 1990. The furnishings also include an 18th-century churchwardens’ chest with three separate locks. The cabinet and chest complement the sacred figures and furnishings with objects relating to church administration.
Walking routes and orientation
The lengths of the two circular routes offer a practical comparison for planning your walk. The Circuit de Haut et Clair is 1.4 kilometres long. The Circuit de l’Enfer et du Pont Romain extends for 7.4 kilometres and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The second route is therefore considerably longer and combines a greater distance with the panorama described.
The walking paths in Monhoudou are signposted from the information board at the church square. Check the signs on site. The red circular route follows the Chemins de l’Enfer, de la Renardière, du Tertre, de Haut-et-Clair and du Pont Romain.
The waterways are also part of the local orientation: the Moire and Gravée pass through Monhoudou.
Courbomer: two historical periods
The Château de Courbomer acquired its present appearance through extensive renovation work carried out from 1858 to 1860. The medieval fortified manor of Courbomer offers a different historical perspective. It was located near the Fossés-Robert, an area of border rivalry between the County of Maine and the Duchy of Normandy. The 19th-century building history of the château and the medieval history of the manor can therefore be viewed as distinct periods in the area’s history.
Discover more destinations: Bessé-Sur-Braye, Bousse, Sablé-Sur-Sarthe, Parigné-Le-Pôlin, Épineu-le-Chevreuil, Sillé-Le-Philippe, Solesmes, Marigné-Laillé.
For the overall travel guide: Sarthe.
