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Église Saint-Maurice: A Gothic Gem in Annecy's Old Town

Discover Annecy's oldest church, a Gothic masterpiece with a rich history and stunning art, located in the heart of the old town.

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The Église Saint-Maurice, the oldest church in Annecy, began as a chapel for a Dominican convent in 1422. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a significant place of worship, showcasing a blend of Gothic architecture and Savoyard influences.

A brief summary to Église Saint Maurice

Local tips

  • Visit during a classical music concert to experience the church's amazing acoustics.
  • Take time to admire the late Gothic architecture and the beautiful stained-glass windows.
  • Explore nearby attractions like the Canal du Thiou and Palais de l'Isle for a complete Annecy experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Église Saint-Maurice is located in the heart of Annecy's old town, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Palais de l'Isle, walk east along the Quai de l'Île, then turn right onto Rue Saint-Maurice. The church will be on your left. The walk is short and offers picturesque views of the Thiou Canal. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Annecy's public transport is operated by SIBRA. Several bus lines serve the old town area. Check the SIBRA website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. Get off at a stop near the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) and walk a short distance to the church. A single ticket costs around €1.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout Annecy. A short taxi ride from the Annecy train station (Gare d'Annecy) to Église Saint-Maurice will cost approximately €11-21, depending on traffic and time of day. Taxi ranks are located outside the train station.

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Discover more about Église Saint Maurice

Église Saint-Maurice, nestled in the heart of Annecy's old town, is a captivating historical landmark. Originally conceived as a simple chapel for a Dominican convent in 1422, its construction was initiated by Cardinal Jean de Brogny following a devastating fire in Annecy. The church's story is one of transformation, from its early days as a place of devotion to its later repurposing as a market and even a stable during the French Revolution. The architecture of Église Saint-Maurice reflects the Gothic style, typical of the churches of the Dominican Order, with a wide central nave designed to accommodate large congregations. Over time, side chapels were added, funded by local guilds and families, each contributing to the church's unique character. Inside, visitors can admire a sculpted pulpit from the early 18th century and a remarkable 15th-century funerary painting from the tomb of Philibert de Monthoux. The 1953 restoration unveiled luminous stained-glass windows and murals, adding to the church's artistic treasures. Look closely, and you might notice that the church appears to lean slightly, a quirk attributed to the unstable subsoil upon which it was built. Despite its somewhat tumultuous past, Église Saint-Maurice stands as a testament to Annecy's enduring spirit, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Today, Église Saint-Maurice continues to serve as a place of worship and a venue for cultural events, such as classical music concerts, where its exceptional acoustics can be fully appreciated.

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