Colline Sainte-Croix
Discover Metz's medieval heart on Colline Sainte-Croix, a historic hilltop with Roman roots and stunning medieval architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Colline Sainte-Croix
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Metz's medieval heart on Colline Sainte-Croix, a historic hilltop with Roman roots and stunning medieval architecture.
"A pretty little square with a medieval style. A must-see during a visit to Metz's old town."
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Cobblestone streets abound! Wear comfy shoes for exploring the historic Colline Sainte-Croix. :athletic_shoe:
🕰️ History Buff's Delight
This area is steeped in history, from Roman times to medieval Metz. Perfect for history lovers! :scroll:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Medieval Mansions
Place Sainte-Croix
Admire well-preserved medieval houses showcasing unique Metz architecture, like the double house at No. 8 and 10.
Historical Cross Site
Place Sainte-Croix
Stand where a monumental cross once marked Metz's Christian beginnings, a site with Roman roots.
Cloître des Récollets Garden
Rue des Récollets
Find a peaceful oasis in this cloister garden, a serene escape in the heart of the city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Metz's Medieval Heart
Navigating the Hilltop
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Cobblestone streets abound! Wear comfy shoes for exploring the historic Colline Sainte-Croix. :athletic_shoe:
🕰️ History Buff's Delight
This area is steeped in history, from Roman times to medieval Metz. Perfect for history lovers! :scroll:
🌳 Tranquil Garden Escape
Don't miss the Cloître des Récollets garden for a peaceful break amidst your exploration. :evergreen_tree:
📸 Architectural Details
Look closely at the intricate details on the medieval houses, especially the lintels and windows. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Cobblestone streets abound! Wear comfy shoes for exploring the historic Colline Sainte-Croix. :athletic_shoe:
🕰️ History Buff's Delight
This area is steeped in history, from Roman times to medieval Metz. Perfect for history lovers! :scroll:
🌳 Tranquil Garden Escape
Don't miss the Cloître des Récollets garden for a peaceful break amidst your exploration. :evergreen_tree:
📸 Architectural Details
Look closely at the intricate details on the medieval houses, especially the lintels and windows. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Colline Sainte-Croix to be a charming and historically rich area in Metz, particularly appreciating the well-preserved medieval architecture and the peaceful ambiance of the square and its gardens. It's noted as a pleasant spot for a quiet stroll and a glimpse into the city's past.
"Houses No. 8 and 10 Place Sainte-Croix in Metz.
I loved visiting this medieval mansion located at No. 8 and 10 Place Sainte-Croix, opposite the former maternity hospital. This house is a well-preserved example of a non-noble dwelling in Metz.
According to tradition, Place Sainte-Croix takes its name from a monumental cross that was erected on the highest point in Metz when the city became Christian. In 1793, this square was called Place de la Montagne. This square, which overlooks the city, is the site of a temple dedicated to Jupiter in Roman times.
Opposite the former maternity hospital, an interesting double house, restored in 1910, exhibits all the characteristics of a typical medieval Metz house. The entrance door has a beautiful trilobed lintel whose rounded molding is supported by slender columns with foliate capitals.
It rises on three levels, resting on cellars pierced by rectangular windows. The ground floor on the left side is ventilated by four oblong windows with highly decorated lintels: the trefoil arches echo the decorative shapes of the door but are highly carved and topped with snuffers.
On the first floor, the six windows are topped with the traditional blind trefoil lintel, while the upper floor is treated as an attic with five smaller, oblong bays separated by small pillars.
The right side of the house, whose quoins are still visible, has a simpler elevation. On the ground floor, the windows were modified in the modern period. The first floor is pierced by four bays with trefoil lintels, and the two following levels are opened by a succession of five small rectangular windows. The screen wall is straight and curves between the two houses. A gargoyle indicates the slope of the roof.
This house is a well-preserved example of a non-noble dwelling in Metz.
There are other private mansions in Metz that bear witness to the finest architecture of this period...
To continue our sightseeing tour of Metz, we can now head to the Hôtel de Heu, then to the nearby Hôtel Saint-Livier, or to the Hôtel de Gournay, built in the 15th century, or to Rabelais's house at No. 5 En Jurue.
Please give me a "like" or "useful" to encourage me in my endeavors.
Thank you. Best regards, Éric Tison. F-57 Moselle."
Eric Tison
"Small square, a few trees and benches available, it's a pleasant place.
This place is also a place steeped in history, from which the first inhabitants built the city of Metz"
Diego Armandò
"A small square in a secluded place with a historical cross..."
Апостол Лазаров
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Colline Sainte-Croix is located in the heart of Metz's old town. You can easily reach it by walking from the city center. If arriving by public transport, bus lines stop nearby. Parking can be challenging, so walking or public transport is recommended.
While you can drive near Colline Sainte-Croix, parking directly on the hill is limited due to its historic and pedestrian-friendly nature. It's best to park in a nearby public car park and walk up.
The best way to explore Colline Sainte-Croix is on foot. The area is best appreciated by wandering through its narrow streets and admiring the architecture at your own pace.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Colline Sainte-Croix is an open area within the city of Metz. You do not need tickets to walk around the square and admire the historic buildings. Entry to the Cloître des Récollets garden is also generally free.
As an outdoor historical area, Colline Sainte-Croix is accessible at all times. However, individual buildings or attractions within the vicinity may have specific opening hours.
The medieval houses on Place Sainte-Croix are private residences or businesses and are viewed from the exterior. There are no entrance fees to see their facades.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Colline Sainte-Croix is known for its historic medieval mansions, particularly the well-preserved double house at No. 8 and 10 Place Sainte-Croix. It's also the site of a historical cross and offers a glimpse into Roman Metz.
Yes, the Cloître des Récollets garden, located on Rue des Récollets, is accessible and offers a peaceful respite. It's a lovely spot to relax and enjoy the greenery.
This hill is historically significant as it's believed to be where a monumental cross was erected when Metz became Christian. It also has roots in Roman times, possibly housing a temple to Jupiter.
Yes, the small square often has benches available, making it a pleasant place to sit, rest, and take in the historical surroundings.
You can expect a charming, historic atmosphere. It's described as a pretty little square with a medieval feel, offering a quiet and pleasant experience away from the main hustle.
📸 📸 Photography
The most photogenic spots include the facades of the medieval mansions on Place Sainte-Croix, with their unique architectural details like trilobed lintels. The Cloître des Récollets garden also offers lovely shots.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light that enhances the textures and colors of the historic buildings. Early mornings can offer a quieter, more atmospheric scene.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed in public areas. However, be mindful of private residences and avoid intrusive photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to spot architectural details like unique windows and gargoyles. The historical significance, from Roman times to medieval Metz, can be simplified into engaging stories. It's a pleasant, low-key outing that complements more active city explorations.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & History Enthusiasts
The quiet nature of the square, especially during off-peak hours, allows for contemplative exploration. The Cloître des Récollets garden provides a serene spot to relax and reflect on the rich past of Metz. It's an ideal location for those who appreciate historical depth and architectural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Gems of Place Sainte-Croix
The first floor of this impressive dwelling is characterized by six windows, each topped with the traditional blind trefoil lintel. The upper floor is designed as an attic space, with five smaller, oblong bays separated by small pillars. The right side of the house, though simpler in elevation, still retains its quoins and features windows modified in more modern periods. The first floor here has four bays with trefoil lintels, and the subsequent levels are punctuated by five small rectangular windows. A gargoyle on the screen wall indicates the slope of the roof, adding a touch of medieval charm.
These houses are not just buildings; they are historical narratives etched in stone. They represent a well-preserved segment of Metz's architectural heritage, offering visitors a tangible connection to the city's medieval life. Exploring these facades provides a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and style of the era, making Colline Sainte-Croix a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.
The Historical Layers of Colline Sainte-Croix
During the Roman era, this very spot may have been home to a temple dedicated to Jupiter, highlighting the area's long-standing importance. In 1793, during the French Revolution, the square was even renamed Place de la Montagne, reflecting its elevated position. This layering of history—from pagan Roman worship to Christian devotion and revolutionary renaming—makes Colline Sainte-Croix a fascinating microcosm of Metz's past.
Today, the small square, with its few trees and benches, offers a peaceful ambiance. It serves as a quiet reminder of the city's ancient foundations and its enduring historical narrative. Visitors can feel the weight of history underfoot, making it more than just a scenic spot but a journey through time.
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