Archaeologists in southeastern France have unearthed a 1,500-year-old Christian cathedral and baptistery beneath a town marketplace, marking one of the most significant early Christian discoveries in Europe in decades.
The remains were found during renovation work at the covered market in Vence, a town just west of Nice. A team from the Regional Directorate of Cultural Affairs and the Nice metropolitan archaeology service led the excavation. What they revealed was a religious site nearly 30 meters long, reflecting centuries of Christian history and architectural evolution.
At the heart of the site lies the baptistery, considered exceptionally well-preserved. It features its original baptismal font, octagonal in form with a cross-shaped interior, made with Roman concrete crafted from crushed tile. Unlike most early Christian baptisteries, this one shows no signs of later modification, providing rare insight into early practices when adult immersion baptism was common.
Rare structure offers new insight into early christianity
Nearby, the cathedral’s nave contained about 30 tombs, believed to be those of clergy such as bishops and canons. These graves, built with Roman-style roof tiles, date back as far as the Carolingian era. Archaeologists hope radiocarbon testing will connect some of the remains to historical figures from Vence’s early bishopric.
Experts called the discovery extremely rare, estimating that such finds emerge only once every 50 to 60 years across Europe. Rather than halt the market renovation, local officials have chosen to integrate the ancient site into the new commercial space.
Plans include a transparent glass floor above the baptistery, allowing shoppers and visitors to view the historic structure below. Sections of the cathedral’s apse and selected burials will also be preserved under protective panels.
Vence balances preservation with daily life
Vence, situated between Italy and ancient Gaul, played a central role in the spread of Christianity. Its bishops maintained ties with influential monastic communities like those on the Lérins Islands. Excavations also revealed remains of a Roman dwelling beneath the cathedral, underscoring the layered history of the site.
The original Christian cathedral was demolished in the 11th century, with its abandoned nave later repurposed to cast bells for the newer church nearby—evidence of how sacred spaces adapted to changing times.
Archaeologist Fabien Blanc-Garidel said the discovery confirms the depth of Vence’s Christian heritage and offers a rare opportunity to study the transformation of a religious site across six centuries.
Once reopened, the marketplace will serve both commerce and culture, placing the Christian cathedral and baptistery in France beneath the daily rhythm of modern life.
