Basilique Saint-Maurice d'Épinal

The Basilique Saint-Maurice d'Épinal is a Romanesque church that combines architectural elements from different periods, creating a layered structure. The distinctive tower with two sections and sturdy supporting pillars throughout define its appearance both inside and out.

The church was consecrated in 1050 by Pope Leo IX, marking the beginning of its role as a religious center. The founding followed a request from Thierry de Hamelant to Bishop Gerard of Toul to establish this sacred place.

The basilica has drawn pilgrims for centuries seeking the relics of Saint Goery, which hold deep religious meaning for believers. This pilgrimage tradition continues to shape how locals and visitors experience the building as a sacred destination.

The basilica sits in central Épinal and is easy to reach on foot while exploring the old town. Regular opening hours allow daytime visits, and information about the building is available onsite.

The interior clearly shows two building phases: the central nave dates from the 11th century while the side aisles were added later in the 13th century. These differences in construction and materials remain visible to visitors and reveal how the building changed over time.