The crypt of Boulogne-sur-mer

Inspired by Saint-Paul in London, the Invalides, the Pantheon or even Saint-Pierre in Rome , the Notre-Dame Basilica in Boulogne-sur-Mer amazes visitors with its unique architecture. Even more astonishing, under its feet lies one of the largest crypts in France . A real labyrinth of 1,400 m2 in which breathtaking works are revealed.

In 1827, when construction of the basilica began on the remains of the old medieval church , a Romanesque crypt came to light in a remarkable state of preservation. The story could have ended there (and it would have been famous already) if we had not decided to continue the work of our ancestors. Around the original crypt there is a 19th-century crypt.

This astonishing labyrinth, which brings together the entire history of the city, can still be visited today. Each room projects you back in time. Excavations in 2012 made it possible to discover unexpected treasures , such as a section of the old wall that points to the existence of a Roman camp in Boulogne-sur-mer, a century before Christ.

Since the crypt served as the foundation of the basilica, you can have fun guessing whether you are under the choir or the nave. You can also have fun counting the number of treasures on display, but you will have to be strict and patient! More than 400 pieces are presented along the route: goldwork, including the reliquary of the Holy Blood offered to Notre-Dame by Philippe le Bel on the occasion of his daughter's marriage, lapidaria from all periods, bas-reliefs, paintings and not forgetting the incredible paintings that adorn the walls.

The crypt of Boulogne has no less than 4,000 m2 of murals. With or without a guide, more than 2,000 years of history await you. A great way to discover the city in a different way.

Willem Vandenameele