The result of three excavation campaigns, the Notre-Dame du Bourg Archaeological Crypt reveals traces of construction on the exact site of the origins of the town of Digne, covering an area of 870 m².
In 1980, at a time when extensive work was underway to save and consolidate the Notre-Dame du Bourg cathedral, the first archaeological excavation campaign (1987-1988) was carried out inside the building to support the restoration needs of the religious edifice. The first discoveries revealed, among other things, the presence of a large-scale place of worship with traces of its liturgical facilities, whose use lasted from the 5th to the 11th century. These very promising results will inevitably lead to the extension of research into two other areas, outside the site.
The first small Christian church, dating from the end of the 4th century to the beginning of the 5th century, and ancient walls from the 1st to the 3rd centuries, will attest to an ancient settlement in the Bourg district.
What is spectacular here is that the traces of construction span almost fifteen centuries, and that the steep rise in the ground over time, sometimes up to six metres high, has enabled the remains to be remarkably well preserved.
The creation of this museum was only made possible by the launch of an ambitious plan to conserve and showcase the ancient heritage of the Provence-Alpes Côte d’Azur region. The scale and interest of the archaeological discoveries motivated the partners to develop the crypt and make it accessible to the public.
Length of visit: 1h30, with 23 explanatory panels. Audio guide in French and English. A “DignArkeo” application available on tablet or free download, which can be transported on a smartphone in French, Italian or English versions.
Crypt staff can also respond to requests for free guided tours of the cathedral for groups, by prior arrangement.
