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Fouilles Saint-Seurin: Unearthing Bordeaux's Christian Origins

Explore Bordeaux's ancient Christian roots at the Fouilles Saint-Seurin, an archaeological site revealing centuries of history and burial traditions.

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The Fouilles Saint-Seurin, or Saint-Seurin Excavations, offer a glimpse into Bordeaux's earliest Christian history. Located beneath the Place des Martyrs de la Résistance, this archaeological site reveals the remains of a vast necropolis dating back to the 4th century, providing a tangible link to the city's distant past.

A brief summary to Fouilles Saint-Seurin

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as the site has limited hours and is only open during certain months.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the site's history and significance.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Basilica of Saint-Seurin to see the crypt and learn more about the area's religious heritage.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're already in the Saint-Seurin - Fondaudège neighborhood, the Fouilles Saint-Seurin are easily accessible on foot. Head east on Rue de Fondaudège until you reach Rue de la Croix de Seguey. Turn right, continue walking, and you'll arrive at Place du Pradeau, where the Fouilles Saint-Seurin are located. The walk should take approximately 10-15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The Fouilles Saint-Seurin are well-served by Bordeaux's public transportation network. Several bus lines, including lines 2, 3, 16, and 26, stop at the 'Saint-Seurin' bus stop, which is just a short walk from the site. Tram lines A and C also have stops nearby. A single fare is €1.80 and is valid for one hour of travel, allowing transfers between trams and buses.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bordeaux and can take you directly to the Place des Martyrs de la Résistance. Expect to pay around €11 for a 5km trip. Keep in mind that taxi rates may vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.

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Discover more about Fouilles Saint-Seurin

The Fouilles Saint-Seurin unveils a significant chapter in Bordeaux's history, showcasing the city's early Christian roots. Situated beneath the Place des Martyrs de la Résistance, the site preserves the remnants of an extensive necropolis that served as a burial ground for nearly fourteen centuries. Founded in the 4th century, the necropolis grew around the Basilica of Saint-Seurin, which was originally built as an abbey church in the 6th century. Saint-Seurin, the fourth bishop of Bordeaux, is one of the city's most venerated patron saints, and the basilica bears his name. Over time, the basilica underwent numerous transformations, evolving into the architectural marvel that stands today. Archaeological excavations, which began in 1910, have unearthed a variety of fascinating finds, including stone structures, ancient burial enclosures, mausoleums, frescoes, and sarcophagi made of limestone and marble. These discoveries offer valuable insights into the burial practices and cultural influences of the time. Legend has it that the hearts of Charlemagne's loyal knights were buried in this necropolis, and that Charlemagne himself left Roland's ivory horn on the altar of Saint-Seurin. Today, visitors can explore a portion of this ancient burial ground and witness firsthand the tangible remains of Bordeaux's early Christian community. The site is recognized as a Historic Monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, solidifying its importance as a cultural and historical landmark.

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