Basilica of Saint-Andoche, Saulieu (Basilique Saint-Andoche)
A Romanesque church on the old Paris to Lyon road, famous for its carved capitals.
- Abbey or church
- 57 min from Beaune
- Allow 45 minutes
- Saulieu
€200one way from Beaune with a private driver
At a glance
- Official website
- saulieu.fr
Getting there
Private driver from Beaune: 57 min by road (70 km), €200 one way for the whole car.
Coming by train or plane? Transfers from stations and airports →
About the place
The Basilique Saint-Andoche stands in the centre of Saulieu, on the edge of the Morvan. Built in the 12th century over the tomb of three early Christian martyrs, it is one of the fine Romanesque churches of Burgundy. Nearly sixty carved capitals line its nave, with biblical scenes, animals and plants.
What you will see
Inside, a pointed barrel vault covers the nave, flanked by two aisles. Look closely at the capitals. You will find Balaam and his donkey stopped by an angel, the Flight into Egypt, the Temptation of Christ and the hanging of Judas, alongside lions, eagles and a cock fight. The choir keeps carved stalls from the late 14th century. A digital gallery explains the building, and the organ has an automaton.
History
Tradition says that Andoche, Thyrsus and Felix were martyred at Saulieu around 177, and a place of pilgrimage grew up over their relics. Stephen of Baugé, bishop of Autun and abbot of Saulieu from 1112, rebuilt the church as a simplified version of the great abbey of Cluny. In 1119 Pope Callixtus II moved the relics of the three martyrs from the crypt to the high altar. The church celebrated its 900th anniversary in 2019.
During the Hundred Years' War, English troops besieged Saulieu in 1359 and set the church on fire. The roofs burned, the bells melted and the whole eastern end was destroyed, leaving only the three naves standing. The choir was later rebuilt, and in 1760 the left tower of the façade was remade and crowned with a lead dome. The church was among the first listed historic monuments, in 1840.
Planning your visit
Tips for your visit
Allow about 45 minutes, and bring a small torch or use your phone to study the capitals. Saulieu is about an hour from Beaune, so pair the basilica with the Musée François Pompon next door and lunch in town. Guided tours can be arranged by appointment. The church is closed to visitors on Mondays, and on Sundays too from November to March. Please check the official website for opening times.
Around here
What to combine with Basilica of Saint-Andoche, Saulieu on the same day, nearest first.
Questions
Basilica of Saint-Andoche, Saulieu is about 57 min from Beaune by road (70 km). With a private driver, the trip from Beaune starts at €200 for the whole car, up to 4 guests.
Did you know? The marble sarcophagus of Saint Andoche shown in the church is a reconstruction. The Merovingian original was sold to a marble cutter from Dijon in the early 19th century.
Sources
Basilica of Saint-Andoche, Saulieu with a private driver
€200 one way from Beaune · up to 4 guests