Visiting Angers? We recommend a visit to the Collégiale Saint-Martin. Over a thousand years old, the church is steeped in history and beauty! Join us as we discover its archaeological and artistic treasures. Its rich cultural program and typical Anjou architecture are sure to amaze you!
Here are some useful tips for planning your visit to the Collégiale Saint-Martin in Angers.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is a visit to the Collégiale Saint-Martin worthwhile?
Yes, we recommend that you visit this site. It's one of the city's best activities. In the heart of the town center, just a stone's throw from the famous Château d'Angers, the collegiate church is not only the oldest church inAngers, but also one of the best-preserved Carolingian monuments in France!
We were struck by the finesse of the works housed here, and by its distinctive Anjou Gothic architectural style, which echoes that of Saint-Maurice Cathedral. Every spring, the venue opens its doors to live entertainment. Why not visit the collegiate church at the same time, and take part in the Resonances Saint-Martin event?
What you can see
A facade combining history and modernity
We were intrigued by the facade of the collegiate church, which combines modernity and history. The contemporary reception building contrasts boldly with the medieval style of the church facade.
Sarcophagi from the Middle Ages
Immerse yourself in the area's past as you contemplate sarcophagi found during archaeological digs. The collegiate church is home to dozens of them!
We were seduced by the lighting effects, which highlighted the framework and the great stone arches of the nave.
The sacristy and its history
The sacristy revealed the secrets of the collegiate church's history through a variety of objects.
Remains of the first buildings
Admire the magnificent carved stonework that bears witness to the church's rich history.
Models of the building
Various models trace the construction of the collegiate church through the ages. We had fun looking at the building in miniature!
Remarkable statuary
The collegiate church is home to some exceptional statuary. We admired some remarkable and unique statues of the Virgin and Child.
Illustrious graves
Graves of illustrious medieval figures punctuate the visit. The beautiful simplicity of the stonework touched us.
The choir in Anjou Gothic style
Look up and admire the choir's magnificent curved vaults, typical of the region's architectural style, Anjou Gothic.
The Chapel of the Angels
Two angels enthroned on columns give the chapel its name. Take a closer look at the details and colors of the two statues!
Finely crafted wall decor
The collegiate church boasts an exceptional mural decor, displaying complexity and finesse. We were impressed by the delicacy of the motifs.
The archaeological crypt
Go deeper into the bowels of the site and contemplate the first foundations of the church. We've travelled all the way back to the 6th century!
Collégiale Saint-Martin in Angers: how to get there
Where to find the collegiate church
- In downtown Angers
- 15-minute walk from the train station
- 10min walk from Château d'Angers
Access by car and parking
The collegiate church does not have its own parking lot. But you can park in the adjacent streets. Please note that parking in the city center is not free. At weekends and in summer, places are also scarcer.
As the hourly rate is relatively expensive, you can opt for one of the city's parking lots. The Ralliement parking lot is 200 meters from the site. The first hour is free! This is also the case in 8 other downtown underground parking lots (Bressigny, Haras, Larrey, Leclerc, Mail, Mitterrand, Molière, République). For more information, visit the official Angers website here.
For free parking, visit the La Rochefoucaud parking lot, which offers 1,200 free spaces. It's a 15-minute walk from the collegiate church on the other side of the river.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Loire
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars - one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a fairly compact car (many villages have narrowed the road).
- Think aboutfull insurance (parking in big cities is really tight).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Public transport access
The collegiate church is accessible:
- By bus: Sainte-Croix or Foch-Saint-Aubin stops (lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 6E, 9, 10, 11 or 14).
- By streetcar: Foch-Maison bleue stop (line A), direction Avrillé-Ardennes.
- You can also decide to walk there and explore the city center. The train station is a 15-minute walk from the monument.
To plan your itinerary, we recommend you visit the official Angers public transport website here.
Visiting difficulties
The visit presents no particular difficulties. The only access to the crypt is via a staircase. The official website states that the venue is accessible to PRMs.
DISCOVER Angers
- Things to do in Angers
- Where to sleep in Angers: best hotels
- Where to eat in Angers: best restaurants
- Rent a car in Angers
- Visit the Château d'Angers
- Visit the Museum of Fine Arts in Angers - coming soon
- Château de Brissac
- Terra Botanica
- Best castles around Angers
- Most beautiful villages around Angers
Visit the Collégiale Saint-Martin: useful tips
Schedules and prices
The full price is €5 and the reduced price €3.5. The collegiate church is open every day except Monday:
- May to January, 1pm to 7pm
- February to April, 2pm to 6pm.
In spring, the site hosts the cultural event Résonances Saint-Martin. Prices and times vary. Find out more here.
How long
Allow 30min to 1h to discover this unique place.
Best moment
In summer, the site is even more popular. If you decide to visit the town and the collegiate church at this time of year, choose the morning for a more exclusive tour. In winter, there will be fewer visitors. In fact, why not take advantage of the low season? Discover all there is to do in Angers in winter!
Direction of visit
There's no set way to visit the site, but we recommend you start by admiring the vast nave, then linger in the sacristy to learn more about the history of the place. Then discover the Gothic choir and the Chapel of the Angels. While you're there, admire the admirable statuary of the collegiate church. Finally, end your visit by exploring the archaeological crypt.
Eating out
It's right in the center of town, and Angers is full of restaurants! Discover our mouth-watering selection.
Hotels
You're in the heart of Angers, home to a myriad of charming hotels. Here are some of our recommendations:
- Choose a unique experience at the Hôtel Oisellerie, a veritable showcase of Renaissance architecture! Availability and further information here.
- A few steps away, the Hôtel d'Anjou will captivate you with its luxury. Take advantage of our swimming pool and spa for a moment of relaxation between two visits! Reserve your room now.
More accommodation ideas here.
WHERE TO STAY IN Angers
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Downtown, to enjoy the city, its restaurants and beautiful architecture.
Hôtel L'Oisellerie - see photos and availability
Hotel 21, Foch - prices, pictures and availability
In the surrounding countryside, for greater peace and quiet
Hotel Château des Forges - see photos and availability
PLAN YOUR TRIP IN
Loire Valley
The castles of the Loire Valley
Other places to explore
Practice
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
