Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The archaeological site of Sainte-Sigolene, located in Lagrave in Occitanie, is a collection of 9th century remains, typical of the Carolingian period. It is distinguished by the presence of a crypt and necropolis of the Upper Middle Ages, testifying to the religious and funeral importance of the place at that time. These remains have been protected since 1994, covering both the crypt, the surrounding necropolis, and the basement likely to contain other archaeological traces.

Saint Sigolene, the central figure of this site, was a noble Albigoise who founded a monastery of nuns in the 9th century. His tomb, once housed on this site, made it a place of devotion and major religious memory in the region. Subsequent excavations and protections preserved this heritage, providing valuable insight into Carolingian monastic and funeral practices in Midi-Pyrénées (now Occitanie).

The site, now accessible to the public, is managed jointly by the municipality of Lagrave and private owners. Its seasonal opening, with guided tours by appointment, allows to discover this exceptional heritage, while stressing its historical role in the development of local Christianity. However, the accuracy of its location remains limited (level 5/10), reflecting the challenges of conservation and enhancement of rural archaeological sites.

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