Saint-Pierre archeological museum

The Saint-Pierre archaeological museum

A stop on the Vienne audio-guided tour, the church of Saint-Pierre is the oldest in the city and one of the oldest in France. Its structure and plans date back to the late fifth century.

From a church to a lapidary museum

Remodelled over time, it preserves traces of the very first church, originally dedicated to the apostles Peter and Paul. Very important in the Middle Ages, it long held the tombs of the bishops of Vienne. In 1809 it became the municipal museum, displaying ancient collections gathered by Pierre Schneyder, then the lapidary museum after a major restoration from 1860.

What to see

The museum displayed Gallo-Roman objects: sculptures, sarcophagi and fragments of former buildings. It has, however, been closed to the public since 2022 for major works. You can still admire from outside this exceptional building, one of the oldest religious witnesses in France.

Practical information

The Saint-Pierre archaeological museum is in the centre of Vienne. It has been closed to the public since 2022 for works; reopening conditions should be checked depending on the season with the city museums.

Why is the church of Saint-Pierre remarkable ?

Its structure dates back to the late fifth century, making it one of the oldest churches in France.

Can the museum be visited ?

No, it has been closed to the public since 2022 for major works; it is seen from outside.