Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The archaeological and mineralogic museum Pierre Borrione is housed in the former parish church of Aime, today Saint-Sigismon chapel, disused. This historic building was erected on the ruins of a Roman temple (I–IVth centuries) and a Paleo-Christian church, bearing witness to a continuous human occupation since the Tena Period. The site once housed Axima, the Roman capital of the Alps Seeds (21 BC), and was a major centre for the Gaulish Ceutron people. The collections, managed by the Society of History and Archaeology of Aime (SHAA), come from donations (including those of Dr. Pierre Borrione, founder of SHAA), private depots and local excavations.

The objects exhibited illustrate the first human occupations in Upper Taraise: prehistoric tools, funeral furniture, Gallo-Roman remains (jewels, ceramics, coins), and architectural elements. Part of the artifacts specifically traces the story of Love, from its role as a Gaulish city to its integration into the Roman Empire. The museum also highlights a necropolis and traces of ancient craftsmanship, offering a panorama of local techniques and industries throughout the ages.

The interest of the site lies in its historical stratification: Roman temple, Paleo-Christian church, and medieval chapel overlap, reflecting the cultural and religious transitions of the region. The museum benefits from the label Musée de France and is part of a heritage network aimed at preserving the memory of the Northern Alps, from prehistory to modern times.

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