Merovingian sarcophagus and other secrets of our collegiate churches

Nestled in the heart of Amay’s historic center, the collegiate church rises with proud elegance, captivating the eye with its three majestic towers and imposing silhouette.

Its Romanesque origins date back to the 11th ^century, but over time it has undergone numerous metamorphoses. Major works in the 18th century shaped the church’s current architectural appearance, transforming its initial austere character into an embellished, coherent silhouette.

In the interior of the church, richly decorated with 18th ^{century stucco, the imprint of this era is clearly reflected with floral and symbolic motifs. A remarkable 17th-century rood screen delineates the counter-choir, constituting a decorative exception.}

The collegiate church is home to two exceptional treasures listed as heritage by the Wallonia-Brussels Federation: the magnificent Merovingian sarcophagus of sancta Chrodoara, displayed through a large glass opening in the choir, in the very spot where it was discovered on January 22, 1977, and the shrine of saint Ode, a masterpiece of 13th-century Mosan goldsmithery.

The remarkable 18th-century oriental cloister (one of only seven in Western and Central Europe) houses the Musée Communal d’Archéologie et d’Art religieux, adding a unique cultural dimension to this architectural ensemble.

The edifice also shines thanks to the talent of Amayt painter Georges Leplat (1930-2010), who created an exceptional Stations of the Cross composed of 15 stations executed in gold leaf using the iconic technique. These works enrich the collegiate church’s precious art collection and illuminate its interior with brilliance.