Originally devoted to agriculture and viticulture, the city of Argenteuil became the fourth commune of the region following a major industrialization in the nineteenth century. Of very old origin, it is populated since the Gallo-Roman period. The city of Paris is known for having received in legacy during the Middle Ages, the famous tunic of Argenteuil. Sent by the Empress Irene to Charlemagne, this piece of cloth would be, according to legend, the tunic of Jesus Christ himself.
Today more touristy, Argenteuil benefits from a strong economy, as well as a historical and architectural heritage of the greatest interest. Its proximity to Paris makes it an ideal place to immerse yourself in the vestiges of Impressionist culture, while enjoying all the attractions of the French capital. Located in the enclosure of a primitive Benedictine abbey, the religious building blends the Romanesque style and the classical style, and allows to admire three burial masonations of the 8th or 10th century.
Uncovered in the second half of the nineteenth century, the covered walk of the Deserts was classified to the Historic Monuments in It is a collective burial dating from the end of the Neolithic era. It is covered with six slabs of sandstone attributed to the civilization of Seine-Oise-Marne. Two other monuments have been inscribed in Argenteuil, the 17th century Marais castle, of which only the main door of the 18th century remains, as well as the crypt of the Notre-Dame abbey. Built between the 11th and 12th centuries, the latter still unveils some walls, as well as a small altar with a liturgical swimming pool.
Centered on local history, the museum of Argenteuil takes place in the old hospital of the eighteenth century. One can admire there collections of drawings, paintings and various objects relating to the commune and its surroundings. Of neo-Romanesque style, the basilica Saint-Denis is known to welcome in its bosom the famous tunic of Argenteuil. The latter is located in an altar-reliquary in painted lava dating from the second half of the 19th century. Enamelled medallions bear witness to the history of the relic over time.
The religious building has other objects classified as Historic Monuments such as a 17th century bell, a painting by Nicolas Guy Brenet from the 18th century, or a Madonna and Child in wood from the 17th century.
