Saint-Aignan d'Orléans, Romanesque church in central Orléans, France
Saint-Aignan d'Orléans is a Romanesque church featuring an underground crypt with engaged columns and carved capitals that exemplify early medieval masonry. The architectural elements below ground reveal the building's structural foundation and the craftsmanship applied to its construction.
The original building was destroyed during Viking raids in the 9th century, after which Robert II commissioned a new Romanesque structure in its place. Its consecration in 1029 marked the completion of this medieval rebuilding effort.
The church once served as a center for sacred music in the city, hosting musicians who created liturgical compositions heard throughout the region.
The building is currently undergoing restoration and is not open for regular visits, though ceremonies may occur on special occasions. Checking conditions before visiting is advisable to understand what access may be available.
The crypt is the sole surviving feature of the medieval church and contains architectural elements that often go unnoticed by visitors. This underground chamber provides direct insight into construction methods used a thousand years ago.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
Orléans still holds surprises, even for those who think they know it well. The Sainte-Croix Cathedral stands in the heart of the city, but it is the old town that draws the eye: narrow streets wind between half-timbered houses, and the squares invite you to sit and watch. Everywhere, history seems...
Orléans Cathedral
478 m
Canal d'Orléans
185 m
Pont René-Thinat
466 m
Hôtel de la Motte-Sanguin
269 m
Église Saint-Pierre-le-Puellier
265 m
Pont de Vierzon
510 m
Église Saint-Euverte
460 m
Synagogue d'Orléans
470 m
Protestant temple of Orléans
497 m
Prefecture hotel of Loiret
490 m
Episcopal palace
452 m
Théâtre antique d'Orléans
539 m
Cercil
440 m
Crypte Saint-Avit, Orléans
551 m
Buste de Charles Péguy
417 m
Salle des thèses
372 m
Maison des Chanoines
468 m
Maison des Chevaliers du Guet, Orléans
488 m
Chapelle de la bibliothèque diocésaine d'Orléans
37 m
Maison du Coin Saint-Pierre
511 m
Maison, 5 place Sainte-Croix
565 m
Chapelle de la maison Saint-Vincent d'Orléans
580 m
Maison, 34 rue de la Charpenterie
416 m
Chapelle de la maison diocésaine Saint-Joseph d'Orléans
386 m
Maison, 9 place Sainte-Croix
555 m
Maison, 11 place Sainte-Croix
542 m
Maison, 15 place Sainte-Croix
530 m
Temple antoiniste d'Orléans
297 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes