The result of three excavation campaigns, the archaeological crypt of Notre-Dame du Bourg reveals traces of construction on the exact location of the origins of the town of Digne, over 870 m².
In 1980, when long works began to save and consolidate Notre-Dame du Bourg cathedral, a first campaign of archaeological excavations (1987-1988) was necessary inside the building to promote the restoration needs of the religious building. The first discoveries will reveal, among other things, the presence of a large-scale place of worship with traces of its liturgical arrangements, the use of which continued from the XNUMXth century to the XNUMXth century. These very promising results will inevitably lead to broadening research into two other sectors, outside.
Thus, the first small Christian church from the end of the 4th century to the beginning of the 5th century and the ancient walls of the 1st and 3rd centuries attest to an ancient settlement in the Bourg district.
What is spectacular here is that the traces of construction span nearly fifteen centuries and that the significant elevation of the soil which has occurred over time, sometimes up to six meters high, has allowed remarkable conservation. remains.
The creation of this museum was only possible through the launch of an ambitious plan for the conservation and enhancement of the ancient heritage of the Provence-Alpes Côte d'Azur region. The scale and interest of the archaeological discoveries motivated the partners to develop the crypt and make it possible for the public to access it.
Duration of the visit: 1h30, freely available thanks to 23 explanatory panels. Audio guide in French and English. A “DignArkeo” application available on tablet or downloadable for free and transportable on your smartphone in French, Italian or English versions.
The staff of the Crypt can also respond to a request for a free guided tour of the cathedral for a group by reservation.
Thus, the first small Christian church from the end of the 4th century to the beginning of the 5th century and the ancient walls of the 1st and 3rd centuries attest to an ancient settlement in the Bourg district.
What is spectacular here is that the traces of construction span nearly fifteen centuries and that the significant elevation of the soil which has occurred over time, sometimes up to six meters high, has allowed remarkable conservation. remains.
The creation of this museum was only possible through the launch of an ambitious plan for the conservation and enhancement of the ancient heritage of the Provence-Alpes Côte d'Azur region. The scale and interest of the archaeological discoveries motivated the partners to develop the crypt and make it possible for the public to access it.
Duration of the visit: 1h30, freely available thanks to 23 explanatory panels. Audio guide in French and English. A “DignArkeo” application available on tablet or downloadable for free and transportable on your smartphone in French, Italian or English versions.
The staff of the Crypt can also respond to a request for a free guided tour of the cathedral for a group by reservation.
Services for children
Suggested treasure hunts and workshops for children.
Tips for the photographer
Before taking any photo, contact the Crypt reception staff who will direct you.
Tips and Suggestions
Free every first Saturday of the month from April to October
Museum passport price: €4
Themes:
Costumed
Language(s) of the visit
Individual visit services
- Unguided individual tours permanently
- Guided individual tours on request
Group visit services
- Guided group tours on request
Opening
From 01/04 to 31/10/2025
Open Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 14:30 p.m. to 18:30 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 14:30 p.m. to 18:30 p.m.
Exceptional closures on Easter Monday, Ascension Thursday, May 1 and May 8.
Open Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 14:30 p.m. to 18:30 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 14:30 p.m. to 18:30 p.m.
Exceptional closures on Easter Monday, Ascension Thursday, May 1 and May 8.
Exceptional Closure(s)
- 21/04/2025
- 29/05/2025
- 01/05/2025
- 08/05/2025
Rates
| Rates | Min. | Max. |
|---|---|---|
| Full price | 7,50 € | Not disclosed |
| Reduced price | 5 € | Not disclosed |
| Jobseeker | 6 € | Not disclosed |
| Big family | 6 € | Not disclosed |
| Disabled | 6 € | Not disclosed |
| Adult group | 8 € | Not disclosed |
| Children group | 30 € | Not disclosed |
Free on the 1st Saturday of each month
Free for students with proof.
Free for schoolchildren in Provence Alpes Agglo.
Single price, guided tour: €10/person
Free for students with proof.
Free for schoolchildren in Provence Alpes Agglo.
Single price, guided tour: €10/person
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Equipment
Services
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Location details
Conditions for welcoming animals
Attach them to the outside.
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