Territorial Abbey of Saint-Maurice, Territorial abbey in Saint-Maurice, Switzerland
The Territorial Abbey of Saint-Maurice is a monastery complex set against a limestone cliff, comprising a basilica church, archaeological site, and religious quarters for Augustinian canons. The location combines architecture and archaeology within an actively used religious center.
The monastery was founded in 515 by King Sigismund of Burgundy and is one of the oldest continuously active religious institutions in the West. This long continuity makes it a notable witness to centuries of Christian history.
The abbey treasury displays medieval religious objects like golden reliquaries, liturgical vessels, and precious textiles from different periods that visitors can see today.
The abbey is open daily to visitors with guided tours available for the archaeological site and treasury museum. A single entrance fee grants access to both the basilica and underground excavations within the monastery complex.
The bell tower houses a carillon of 49 bells installed in 2004 that plays during religious ceremonies and special concerts. This extensive bell collection is a rare feature for a medieval monastery.
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