Self-Guided Podcast Tour Annecy: The Dual Crown of the Alps

Overview

Discover the hidden paradox of Annecy. Beyond the picturesque canals and alpine charm lies a fierce, centuries-old battleground for absolute control. This is the story of how a rugged military stronghold of the Dukes of Savoy transformed into the 'Rome of the Alps'—a sophisticated instrument of the Catholic Counter-Reformation. Unravel the brilliant, sometimes ruthless strategies of saints and lords who fought not with swords, but with architecture, education, and the human soul. A 3.3 km self-guided tour with 6 stops over 103 min, Ideal for travelers interested in Power, Protest & Civic Spaces and History & Memory, Immersively told in a podcast style by experts and locals, Matching audio content, AI guide and navigation through the app.

Itinerary

1. Musée-Château d'Annecy

   The former residence of the Counts of Geneva, representing the secular and military dominance over the region.

   · 10 min

2. Built on the site of the first tomb of St. Francis de Sales, marking the grassroots beginnings of the 'Rome of the Alps'.

   · 10 min

3. The 16th-century cathedral that became the literal seat of the Counter-Reformation in Annecy after the bishops were exiled from Geneva.

   · 10 min

4. The former bishop's palace and administrative heart of St. Francis de Sales' religious campaign.

   · 10 min

5. The former site of the college founded to educate Catholic priests and counter the intellectual spread of Calvinism.

   · 10 min

6. Basilique de la Visitation

   The grand basilica housing the relics of St. Francis de Sales, serving as the ultimate monument to Annecy's religious triumph.

   · 10 min

How to use your ticket

Thank you very much for your booking! We are excited to give you a fantastic tour experience with the Red Thread app. Since this is a self-guided tour, you enjoy total freedom: start whenever it suits you — at your own pace, with no fixed timetable or group. Here is how to redeem your voucher: 1. Download the app: Install the free "Red Thread: Discover Home" app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/de/app/red-thread-discover-home/id6757938513 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.voltaire.redthread 2. Redeem your code: Open the app and scan the QR code on your ticket — or type your voucher code in. 3. For groups: Every participant installs the app on their own smartphone and redeems their own code from the ticket — one code per person. Once redeemed you have 14 days of access — the clock starts at redemption, not at booking. More information on our website: https://redthread.world We hope you enjoy your Red Thread tour!

Meeting and end point

What to know before you go

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• This activity can accommodate a maximum of 99 travelers.
• You will receive confirmation immediately when you book.

Travelers

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

• From 1 days before : 100% refunded
• From 0 days before : 0% refunded

Product code: 5686150P225

Activity offered by Red Thread via Viator.