From 1230 onwards, Leytron gradually broke away from Saillon and became a parish placed under the protection of Saint Martin, Bishop of Tours. Around 1250, the Old Church of Leytron was founded on an ancient Gallo-Roman site. Inside, several altars were erected: the high altar in the centre, dedicated to Saint Martin; on the right, the Rosary altar; and on the left, the altar dedicated to Saint Anthony, now stored at the current presbytery.
The church was enlarged for the first time in 1257, and again in 1686. Originally Romanesque in style, it later adopted the Gothic style. It was also raised following floods caused by the Losentse or the Grand Tsené. The bell tower, dating from the 10th or 11th century, is listed as a historic monument.
Around 1930, the old sanctuary underwent major alterations: a floor slab was constructed, dividing the building into two parts. The upper section became a parish hall, with white-painted walls and vaulted ceiling, whilst the lower levels are used by the local council.
The exterior of the religious building was restored in 1991 and 2005. As for the interior, restoration work was carried out in the 1970s. The most recent restoration work was completed in the summer of 2024.
Today, the building is used by the Leytron Cultural Commission for primary school assemblies as well as for various cultural events and initiatives in the region.
Photo credits: ©Richard Chapuis
