Église Notre-Dame-de-Liesse d'Annecy (Notre Dame de Liesse Church), Annecy

The Church of Notre-Dame-de-Liesse was founded and constructed in the 14th century by the counts of Geneva, Amedee III and Count Robert. The Count Amedee was hoping to make the church a necropolis for his family. The church was built on the site of an old chapel and a medieval square and hospital. The church was consecrated in 1398.

Everything was more or less fine until the French Revolution. Changes were made. The choir was demolished and the steeple lost its spire and watchtowers. The new regime needed space, they said, for a "Place of Freedom." They were expecting bigger crowds to gather around the "Tree of Freedom."

In 1815, after the disappearance of Napoleon from the European stage, the parishes were re-established. The churches were rebuilt. The present Notre-Dame was built by 1851. Some elements, including the bell tower and the south Gothic window were restored.

The church is in the classic shape of a Latin cross. The nave and aisles have full vaults and there is a central dome. The facade is neoclassical in the Sardinian style of 1846. There are two altars dedicated to Saint Francois de Sales and Our Lady of the Rosary. The high altar dates from 1854.

In front of the church a square called "Place Note Dame" has also been preserved. The square is surrounded by cafes and shops.