Archaeologists in France have uncovered Merovingian tombs and Roman sarcophagi beneath the Church of Saint-Philibert in Dijon, shedding new light on the site’s centuries-old history.
The discoveries reveal that this 12th-century Romanesque church sits atop layers of religious and burial structures dating back to Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages.
The Church of Saint-Philibert, located near the towering Saint-Bénigne Cathedral, has long been known for its historical significance. Built in the second half of the 12th century, the church is a remarkable example of Romanesque architecture in Burgundy. However, recent excavations have shown that the site’s history stretches even further back.
Ancient burial discoveries
In the 1920s, archaeologists found the remains of an 11th-century church beneath Saint-Philibert. Surrounding this discovery were graves that pointed to a cemetery from the same period. Beneath these layers, walls constructed using opus spicatum – a brickwork style typical of the Early Middle Ages – suggested the existence of an even older church, possibly from the 10th century.
More recently, excavations revealed a series of stone coffins, known as sarcophagi, dating to the Merovingian period (6th to 8th centuries). These sarcophagi were placed atop even older burials from the late Roman Empire.
One of these Roman sarcophagi featured a rare carved lid, indicating that high-status individuals were buried there. The findings suggest the site served as an elite burial ground over many centuries.
Layers of history beneath Saint-Philibert
The church’s grounds have been used for burials over generations. Excavations in the nave uncovered wooden coffins dating from the 14th to 18th centuries. The bodies, mostly adults, were buried facing east to west, wrapped in simple cloth shrouds. Small offerings, such as coins and rosaries, were found alongside some remains.
In the transept, archaeologists discovered a 15th or 16th-century ossuary — a storage space for old bones. This practice allowed for new burials by reorganizing older remains. Additionally, stone slab graves from the 11th to 13th centuries link the site to early Christian communities predating the current Romanesque church.
Preservation challenges
Despite its historical importance, the Church of Saint-Philibert faces ongoing threats. Salt damage, a result of salt storage in the 18th and 19th centuries, has weakened the church’s walls and pillars.
In the 1970s, the installation of a heated concrete floor trapped residual salt, causing further harm to the structure. Though the heated floor was later removed, the damage remains. Some stones have cracked and burst, complicating preservation efforts.
Protecting a rich history
Conservation work, led by the National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research (Inrap), continues to uncover the site’s buried secrets while striving to protect its fragile structure. Restoration experts are exploring long-term strategies to stabilize the building and preserve its historical features.
The discoveries of Merovingian tombs and Roman sarcophagi underscore the site’s importance. As experts work to balance repair and preservation, the Church of Saint-Philibert remains a key link to France’s ancient past, offering valuable insights into the people and practices of bygone eras.