Auxerre, Medieval urban complex in Burgundy, France
Auxerre is a town in the Yonne department of Burgundy where the Cathedral of Saint-Étienne features three sculpted doorways, a rose window, and a northwest tower. The Abbey of Saint-Germain houses beneath its floor Carolingian crypts with religious wall paintings, while along the Yonne River half-timbered houses and stone buildings define the urban landscape.
The settlement originated as a Roman provincial capital called Autissiodorum and became an ecclesiastical center with a bishop's seat in the 3rd century. During medieval times the town developed into an important religious and commercial node in the Yonne valley.
The crypts beneath the Abbey of Saint-Germain date from the 9th century and preserve Carolingian wall paintings. Visitors today can view some of France's oldest religious frescoes in the underground chambers where bishops of Auxerre were once laid to rest.
Visitors can explore the medieval quarters on foot, with most major landmarks located within the historic center. The crypts beneath Saint-Germain require descending steep stairs, which may be difficult for people with limited mobility.
Archaeological excavations in 2024 uncovered a Roman cemetery containing 250 infant burials, offering insights into ancient funerary practices. The discovery occurred during urban development work and greatly expanded knowledge of Roman life in Autissiodorum.
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