l’abbaye Saint-Germain

The Abbaye Saint-Germain is one of Auxerre’s most important historic monuments. Its origins date back to the 5th century, when a chapel was built on the site of Saint Germanus’ tomb. A visit reveals more than fifteen centuries of history, with Carolingian, Romanesque, Gothic and classical architecture. Highlights include the 9th-century crypts, which contain some of the oldest surviving wall paintings in France. The former monastic buildings also house the Musée Saint-Germain and temporary exhibitions. The monastery buildings and museum collections can be explored independently, while the Carolingian crypt can only be visited as part of a guided tour.