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Musée Archéologique Saint-Laurent: Grenoble's Echoes of the Past

Uncover Grenoble's past in a unique archaeological site, exploring centuries of history from early Christian tombs to a remarkable Merovingian crypt.

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The Musée Archéologique Saint-Laurent in Grenoble, France, unveils 2000 years of history within a former parish church. Its Merovingian crypt, one of Europe's best-preserved, showcases early medieval art and architecture. Archaeological finds reveal the evolution of funerary practices and beliefs from the 4th to the 19th centuries.

A brief summary to Musée archéologique Saint-Laurent

Local tips

  • Visit on the first Sunday of the month for a free guided tour at 2:30 PM, reservations are required.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits and archaeological site.
  • Download the audio guide in advance or borrow one at the entrance for a more immersive experience.
  • Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Musée Archéologique Saint-Laurent is easily accessible by public transport. Take Tram B to the 'Notre-Dame Musée' stop or Bus 16 to the 'Saint-Laurent' stop. From either stop, it's a short walk to the museum entrance. A single tram or bus fare costs around €1.70.

  • Walking

    From the Grenoble city center (e.g., Place Grenette), the Musée Archéologique Saint-Laurent is a pleasant 15-20 minute walk. Cross the Isère River and follow the Quai Perrière along the riverbank. The museum is located on Place Saint-Laurent, near the Porte Saint-Laurent.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available at the Musée de Grenoble parking lot on Place Lavalette, a short walk from the Musée Archéologique Saint-Laurent. Parking rates typically range from €2 to €3 per hour. Limited street parking may also be available in the area.

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Discover more about Musée archéologique Saint-Laurent

Nestled at the foot of the Bastille in one of Grenoble's oldest neighborhoods, the Musée Archéologique Saint-Laurent offers a captivating journey through time. This unique museum is housed within the former Saint-Laurent parish church, itself a classified historical monument. The site reveals Grenoble's history through archaeological and architectural remnants accumulated from the early days of Christianity to the 19th century. The museum's centerpiece is the remarkable 6th-century Saint-Oyand crypt, a rare and exceptionally well-preserved example of early medieval architecture in France. Its sculpted décor and state of preservation have made it famous. The crypt's colonnade, added in the 7th century, features capitals and tailloires adorned with Christian motifs. Excavations conducted between 1978 and 2008 unearthed a wealth of archaeological vestiges, providing a unique perspective on the evolution of funerary practices, beliefs, and mentalities. Visitors can explore the remains of successive buildings from the 4th to the 19th centuries, including eight mausoleums from the 4th and 5th centuries. One mausoleum features well-preserved mural paintings, a rare find in France. The museum's collections showcase over 3,000 objects discovered in archaeological layers and tombs, offering insights into the daily lives of Grenoble's inhabitants from the 6th to the 18th centuries. Digital displays enhance the visitor experience, bringing the past to life and highlighting the archaeological remains. Audio guides are available in five languages (French, English, Spanish, German and Italian).

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