Between Vercors and Chambaran, this medieval town forms one of the most remarkable sets of architectural buildings in the Dauphiné.
Away from the main tourist routes, the village of Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye will amaze you with its rich history. As a stopping point on the Pilgrim's Way to Santiago de Compostella, this charming rural town owes its name to the relics of Saint Antoine brought here over 1,000 years ago. From then on, pilgrims and people suffering from ergotism, also known as St Anthony's Fire, flocked there. From the 12th century, religious doctors founded one of the most prosperous abbeys in Europe.
The abbey's treasure
Today, the abbey church, classified as an Historic Monument in 1840, continues to impress visitors. A jewel of Gothic art, it testifies by its size to the importance of this sanctuary and the influence exercised by the powerful hospitalier order of the Antonins. Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, it has a façade characteristic of flamboyant Gothic art. In the sacristy, the Antonins' treasure, one of the most eminent reliquaries in France, will astound you with its collection of over 380 objects, including improbable surgical instruments!
Medieval atmosphere
Stroll along the village's charming streets and alleyways, for a guaranteed medieval atmosphere! The houses become more richly decorated along with the social standing of their occupants and their proximity with the Abbey itself. Push the door of the Saint-Antoine-L'Abbaye departmental museum, located in the former novitiate. You will discover all about the surprising brotherhood of the Antonins. And notably their art of pharmacopoeia, which can also be seen in the reconstituted medieval garden in the Stable courtyard. Throughout the year, this heritage comes to live with numerous events such as the Textes en l'air Festival, the Foire à l'ancienne (Old Fair), the Christmas Market and the Medieval Fair...
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