Saint-Pierre archeological museum

Here you stand in front the the St-Pierre Church. Not only is it the oldest in Vienne, it is also one of the oldest in France. Its structure and plans date to the 5th century. The church was of course rebuilt through the ages, but still keeps its original traits. It was initially dedicated to the apostles Pierre and Paul. Throughout the Middle Age, it was such a significant church, that Vienne’s bishops were buried here for numerous years. In 1809, the church became the municipal museum, already unveiling antique collections put together by Pierre Schneyder. He was an artist who spent most of his life highlighting Vienne’s historical richness. In 1860, the church was renovated by the town, and became the lapidary museum 12 years later. Gallo-roman sculptures, sarcophagus and parts of ancient building were exposed there. Unfortunately, you cannot visit it, as it is closed to public since 2022 to allow the town to carry out modifications, in order to become the departemental Vienne History Museum. It should reopen in 2027, and will focus on the town’s history from Prehistory to Modern Times. A perfect complement to the Saint-Romain-en-Gal Museum, which is close by, and focuses on the gallo-roman period.