Located at the crossroads of France and Italy, this Roman town has ancient amphitheaters, vineyards, and Mont Blanc views. Home to the Gianadda art museum and Celtic ruins.
Martigny, a town of 18,000 residents in Switzerland's Valais canton, sits at the intersection of routes connecting Switzerland, France, and Italy. Walk through a 2,000-year-old Roman amphitheater, climb to the medieval La Bâtiaz Castle, or explore the Pierre Gianadda Foundation's sculpture garden with works by Rodin and César. At 471 meters above sea level and encircled by vineyards, Martigny serves as a gateway to several major ski resorts, including Verbier in the 4 Vallées region.
Getting Around Martigny
You can reach Martigny easily via the Simplon railway line from both Italy and major Swiss cities like Geneva and Lausanne. Take the Mont Blanc Express, a narrow-gauge railway that winds through the mountains, to reach the French resort of Chamonix in 90 minutes. The Sankt Bernhard Express runs from Martigny to Orsières, with continuing bus service to the Great St. Bernard Pass.
Museums and Cultural Attractions
The Pierre Gianadda Foundation occupies a modern building constructed around the remains of an ancient Roman temple. Inside, you'll find Switzerland's largest collection of vintage cars in the automobile museum, while two major art exhibitions rotate through the gallery spaces each year. In the outdoor sculpture garden, you can walk among more than 50 works by artists like Moore, Rodin, and Niki de Saint Phalle, set against mountain views.
Local Agriculture and Wine
The sunny climate of the Valais region creates perfect growing conditions for many crops. Local winemakers cultivate vineyards on the surrounding hillsides, while farmers grow strawberries, apricots, and asparagus in the valley. Visit the Morand Distillery to taste spirits made from regional fruits.
Roman History and Archaeological Sites
Walk through the restored Roman amphitheater or examine the remains of ancient thermal baths and temples scattered throughout Martigny. The archaeological sites preserve parts of the Roman settlement of Octodurum, including living quarters from 2,000 years ago. Visit the Gallo-Roman Museum in the Pierre Gianadda Foundation to see artifacts discovered at these sites.
Seasonal Events
Join the Foire du Valais each fall to experience regional products, cultural exhibitions, and watch the Combat de Reines - traditional fights between Hérens cows. In June, the Festival des 5 Continents brings world music performances to the town. During the Marathon des terroirs du Valais, you can sample local food and wine at stops along the route through the region's vineyards.
