Saint-Ursanne: Collegiate Church and Doubs Valley

Saint-Ursanne is a historic small town and a collegiate foundation. The town lies at 440 m above sea level, about eight kilometres as the crow flies southeast of Porrentruy. The historic small town stretches along the narrow Doubs Valley on the river’s right bank. To the north are the Jura ranges of Lomont and Mont Terri; to the south are those of Clos du Doubs. The valley floor is usually only 100 to 200 m wide; steep, mostly wooded slopes and occasional rock bands frame the valley. Since 1 January 2009, Saint-Ursanne has been part of the political municipality of Clos du Doubs.

Old Town and Getting Around

The three town gates and the Saint-Jean Népomucène Bridge are the only entrances to the Old Town. 360° panoramas, an interactive map with GPS and suggested walking routes are available for exploring the medieval town. Digital service details may change; check the latest information before your trip.

Collegiate Church, Cloister and Garden

The complex of the collegiate church and cloister dates from the 12th and 13th centuries. The south portal is influenced by Burgundian Romanesque architecture and is one of the most significant portals of this style in Switzerland. The historic organ in the collegiate church was built in 1776 by the Alsatian organ builder Jacques Besançon. The complex’s medieval architectural history and an instrument from the late 18th century thus represent different periods side by side.

A medieval garden in Saint-Ursanne brings medicinal and vegetable plants once used in the past to life. This draws attention not only to architecture and the town’s history, but also to the former uses of these plants.

Musée lapidaire

The Musée lapidaire is normally closed to the public; visits are possible as part of guided tours. Check before your trip whether a tour is available. The collection includes monolithic Merovingian and Carolingian sarcophagi, as well as architectural and sculptural elements from earlier buildings in the town of Saint-Ursanne.

Culture and Activities

With a special key, the Circuit Secret offers a way to discover the medieval treasures and emblematic places of Saint-Ursanne. The experience was developed by John Howe together with regional artists, designers and engineers. Operating details may change; check the latest information before your visit.

The Parc du Doubs offers guided hikes that start in Saint-Ursanne. Check the hiking programme before your trip. Another activity is the Clos du Doubs e-bike route: a 35-kilometre circular route starting and finishing in Saint-Ursanne. On the section leading to Saint-Ursanne, it runs along the banks of the Doubs; route details may be revised. The formats therefore differ in practical terms: a guided hike or an e-bike circuit.

Discover more destinations: Rocourt Ju, Porrentruy, Courchavon, Ocourt, Seleute, Asuel, Bonfol, Coeuve.

For the overview of the wider region: Porrentruy.