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Offered languages
- German
- English
Discover the hidden paradox of Annecy. Beyond the picturesque canals and alpine charm lies a fierce, centuries-old battleground for absolute control. This is the story of how a rugged military stronghold of the Dukes of Savoy transformed into the 'Rome of the Alps'—a sophisticated instrument of the Catholic Counter-Reformation. Unravel the brilliant, sometimes ruthless strategies of saints and lords who fought not with swords, but with architecture, education, and the human soul.
A 3.3 km self-guided tour with 6 stops over 103 min, Ideal for travelers interested in Power, Protest & Civic Spaces and History & Memory, Immersively told in a podcast style by experts and locals, Matching audio content, AI guide and navigation through the app.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
From Annecy's main station, take local public transport toward Château d'Annecy. Get off at the nearest stop and walk the final few minutes. Check the current local connection on the day of travel.
From Basilique de la Visitation, walk to the nearest public transport stop and travel back to Annecy's main station. Check the current local connection on the day of travel.
Itinerary
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1Chateau d'Annecy
The former residence of the Counts of Geneva, representing the secular and military dominance over the region.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Built on the site of the first tomb of St. Francis de Sales, marking the grassroots beginnings of the 'Rome of the Alps'.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
The 16th-century cathedral that became the literal seat of the Counter-Reformation in Annecy after the bishops were exiled from Geneva.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
The former bishop's palace and administrative heart of St. Francis de Sales' religious campaign.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
The former site of the college founded to educate Catholic priests and counter the intellectual spread of Calvinism.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6Basilique de la Visitation
The grand basilica housing the relics of St. Francis de Sales, serving as the ultimate monument to Annecy's religious triumph.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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