Former Saint-Genest chapel, on the Sainte-Croix hill
Now deconsecrated, this former Catholic chapel stands on the slopes of the Sainte-Croix hill, behind the Fournirue. It was dedicated to Saint Genesius, an actor martyred in Rome.
A medieval townhouse turned Hospitaller chapel
Despite its name, the building was not raised for worship. It began as a private residence of the 12th and 13th centuries, Gothic or even Romanesque, flanked by a square tower. In 1565 the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, whose commandery stood a little further up rue d'Enfer, took ownership and fitted out the chapel; the Mérimée database records building work around 1570. The order kept it until the Revolution, like the neighbouring Hôtel de Malte on rue des Murs. Together, these two addresses mark out a small Hospitaller territory on the slope of the Sainte-Croix hill.
A stop on foot, from the bottom of rue d'Enfer to En Jurue
The former chapel, now privately owned, is viewed from the street: the tourist office lists it as an exterior visit. The historic monument protection covers the chapel, its tower, its porch and its entrance door, all features to look out for. It overlooks a small square at the bottom of rue d'Enfer, at the corner of En Jurue, close to the memory of Rabelais, who stayed in Metz in the 1540s. All that remains of his house is a door and a window at the back of a small garden. Then carry on up the street towards the area of the former commandery.
Practical information
Address: Corner of Rue d'Enfer and En Jurue, 57000 Metz
Frequently asked questions
Where is it?
On the slopes of the Sainte-Croix hill, behind the Fournirue.
Is this monument protected?
Yes, it is registered as a historic monument.
Can you go inside the former Saint-Genest chapel?
No, not in normal times: the building is private property, and the tourist office indicates a free exterior visit. From the public street, look at the tower, porch and entrance door, which are protected as historic monuments.
Where can you stay near the Sainte-Croix hill?
The centre around the cathedral puts the old town within walking distance, and Outre-Seille is a pleasant compromise between charm and price. To compare these options and search for accommodation, open Staylaro's guide « Se loger à Metz ».
