Fêtes de Saint-Bernard

In the footsteps of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux

Fontaine-lès-Dijon is the birthplace of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153), one of the greatest reformers of the Cistercian order, Doctor of the Church, and preacher of the Second Crusade. Each year, the Fêtes de Saint-Bernard celebrate his memory on the hill overlooking the town, where the family castle was transformed in the 17th century into a Feuillants convent with the support of King Louis XIII and Anne of Austria.

Procession and veneration of relics

From August 20th (liturgical feast of Saint Bernard) to the first Sunday of September, the saint's relics are carried in procession to the hill. The celebrations include solemn masses, processions, and moments of reflection in the Saint-Bernard basilica and the convent chapels. Guided tours of the birthplace allow visitors to discover the history of Saint Bernard in the very place of his birth.

A heritage classified as a historical monument

The Saint-Bernard convent and basilica are classified as historical monuments. The 14th-century church, remodeled in the 16th century, houses remarkable works of art. Summer tours of the birthplace, organized by volunteer guides, retrace the life of Saint Bernard and the history of the monastery in an exceptional architectural setting.