The Église de l’Annonciation is the parish church of Cotignac, located at the base of the dramatic limestone cliff that dominates the village. The church dates back to 1266, when the growing population decided to build a larger place of worship to replace earlier sanctuaries in the area.

During the medieval period, two churches existed in Cotignac: Saint-Pierre, located near the cliff, and Saint-Martin, situated on the plain overlooking the Rocher. The present church evolved from the earlier Saint-Pierre building, which itself likely dated from the 11th century before being transformed during the 13th century.

Over the centuries, the church underwent several enlargements and renovations, especially during the 17th and 18th centuries, giving it the appearance seen today. Much of its interior decoration is protected as Monuments Historiques.

Among the notable works inside are:
• A painting of Saint Martin sharing his cloak by Angélique Mongez (1819)
• A 16th-century white marble holy water font
• A bronze bell dating from 1524
• A polychrome marble high altar from the Louis XV period, attributed to Pierre Puget
• A 17th-century wrought-iron communion rail
• A Louis XV carved wooden confessional
• A 17th-century gilded statue of the Virgin and Child

Cotignac church has also been carefully restored in recent decades. Major works included the installation and restoration of the organ, roof repairs, façade restoration, and a complete interior renovation completed in 2004.

Today, the church remains an important historical and spiritual landmark in Cotignac, reflecting the long religious history of the village.

👉 Local tip: After visiting the church, walk toward the Rocher de Cotignac cliffs behind it. The contrast between the church and the towering rock wall is one of the most striking views in the village.