Aux portes septentrionales de la ville médiévale d’Orléans : un nouveau regard sur la topographie religieuse et funéraire

Abstract

The monumental cityscape in Orléans, and more particularly the Étape district dating back to the 1480’s, was still expanded by urban projects at the end of the 15th century and in the 16th century, steeped in a taste for the Renaissance architecture. The second tram line construction project offered an opportunity of discovering the medieval remains in this district underground, which is outside the city walls, and understanding its evolution over eight centuries. The excavations where conducted by the Inrap in 2010, on an area of 1400 m2. This article provides the results of this archaeological campaign, renewing the discussion related to the development of a Northern suburb district, close to the cathedral area, and marked by religious, health and funerary activities.