The village is of very ancient origin. Formerly it was protected by a belt of moats, now partly filled in, and by earthen ramparts, almost everywhere levelled. The lines of these moats, planted with rows of elm-trees, are clearly distinguishable. There is a very extensive view from this original site.
A portion of the village was burnt by the Germans who, in 1916, destroyed the belfry of the church with dynamite.
This church (dedicated to St. Peter and St. Paul), with its fine Romanesque tower, was remarkable.
The greater part of it dated from the 12th and 13th centuries. It is now in ruins (photo above).
Cross straight through the village. Numerous German signs are still to be seen. At the cross-roads just outside the village, follow the railway, then cross it near the destroyed railway station of Fresnes. The village of Fresnes is reached shortly afterwards.
Turn to the right at the first crossing met with. The church stands about 100 yards away, on the left.
Norman in style, the Church of Fresnes comprises a central nave with aisles and a tower without transept. It dates back to the 12th century, but was several times extensively altered and restored both in the 18th century and in recent times.
A small porch of limestone added to the northern aisle, is reached by a round Norman bay of stone. In the corner of the porch, to the left on entering, is incrusted a fragment of a small funerary monument of the 16th century.
