Legend of the Graoully

The legend of the Graoully, the dragon of Metz

Do you know why the street you climb here is called Rue Taison? It is linked to the legend of the Graoully, the dragon of Metz. The Metz audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this founding tale, which has belonged to the folklore of the city for centuries.

The dragon defeated by Saint Clement

The legend tells that the Graoully, a fearsome dragon with poisoned breath, once terrorised Metz and its inhabitants. According to tradition, it was defeated by Saint Clement, the first bishop of the city, who drove it out and delivered the city. This tale symbolises the victory of Christianity over the old beliefs. The name of Rue Taison is said to evoke the whispering of the inhabitants faced with the creature.

What to see

You discover Rue Taison and the lanes of old Metz while keeping the legend of the Graoully in mind. The dragon, become an emblem of the city, appears in various representations and during festivals. It is an original stop, which blends a walk in the historic centre and a dive into Messin folklore.

Practical information

Rue Taison, linked to the legend of the Graoully, lies in the heart of the historic centre of Metz, near the cathedral, reachable on foot. It is a freely accessible public street on the level. The place is discovered during a walk in old Metz, on the trail of the famous legend.

What is the Graoully of Metz?

It is a legendary dragon that, according to tradition, terrorised Metz before being defeated by Saint Clement, the first bishop of the city; it has become an emblem of the city.

Where to evoke the legend of the Graoully in Metz?

On Rue Taison, in the heart of the historic centre of Metz, near the cathedral, whose name is said to be linked to the legend.