Abbaye de Saint-Maurice - basilica, treasure and archaeological site

About this place

The treasure of the Abbey of Saint-Maurice illustrates the importance of the monastery from the 6th century to the present day. It contains mainly goldsmiths’ work offered to venerate the martyrs and to recognise the testimony of faith of the successive monastic communities. The Abbey of Saint-Maurice was founded by Sigismund, king of the Burgundians, in 515. Its precious collection of gold and silver works bears witness to the wealth ; the religious and political influence of the abbey, in the past and in modern times. Reflectively and with admiration, you pass through 1500 years of uninterrupted monastic life. The visit takes you through the basilica, the treasury, the archaeological excavations, the catacombs and the cloister. The martyrdom of Saint-Maurice and his companions, around the year 300, is the origin of this major site of Christianity. The annual commemoration is celebrated each 22 September.

Location