Martin M. Miles' photos with the keyword: Hiberno-Scottish mission

In the 7th century Algecusius, an Irish monk and missionary, erected a small oratory here. From the 12th century on the place was known as Saint-Algis. The small church, built in the 13th century, got fortified 300 years later. All efforts concentrated on the monumental donjon. Originally it was flanked by four turrets, of which two remain. The imposing tower has 4 levels. The Thiérache area in Northern France has been a place, where many wars and battles were fought over the centuries (upto WW1). To fortify the church, and so to offer shelter to the rural population, was an idea many villagers followed here.