Archaeological Park in Lyon
Found at the heart of Lyon's old town, the city's archaeological park provides an intriguing insight into Roman civilisations of old.
The city was once the capital of the Western Roman Empire, and the park's numerous archaeological remains show just how important Lyon was to Gallo-Roman society.
The centrepiece of the park is the Roman amphitheatre, thought to have been built by decree of Emperor Augustus in approximately 16 BC. Once holding 11,000 spectators, the remains now seat 4,000 and are still used as a venue for classical music concerts in the summer.
A smaller theatre found nearby, the Odeon, is notable for its mosaic floor and extensive courtyards.
Now a UNESCO world heritage site, the park contains a unique display of ancient culture. The Gallo-Roman Museum is housed almost entirely underground, with only the top floor visible from the surface, creating the impression of an unexcavated burial site. The museum was designed by architect Bernard Zehrfuss, who also worked on the construction of Paris' famous CNIT convention centre.
Collections feature a variety of Roman artefacts, including mosaics, statues and sarcophagi. The most famous exhibit is the Claudius Tablet, which transcribes a speech made by Emperor Claudius in 48 AD in which the Emperor calls for unity among the heads of the Gallic nations.
An enthralling mix of ancient architecture and contemporary structural designs, a visit to the archaeological park is a great idea for a fascinating and highly enjoyable break.
© Adfero Ltd
| Bookmark with: | ||||
 Delicious |  Digg |  reddit |  Facebook |  StumbleUpon |
Recommended Lyon Breaks
3* Mercure Plaza Republique Hotel from £239
The Mercure Plaza Republique Hotel is a traditional hotel with 78 comfortable bedrooms. Relax in the hotel's bar with a drink after spending the day exploring Lyon. The hotel is in...
More Info
3* Grand Hotel Des Terreaux from £254
The Grand Hotel Terreaux Hotel has 56 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms. Each bedroom is decorated in a different style. The hotel has a bar, and an indoor pool. The hotel is well...
More Info
4* Le Royal Mgallery Lyon from £293
Le Royal Mgallery Hotel in Lyon is a historic hotel with 74 comfortable bedrooms. Enjoy dinner in the Cote Cuisine dining room or a drink in the Cote Bellecour lounge, overlooking...
More Info
4* Sofitel Bellecour Lyon from £345
The Sofitel Bellecour Hotel is a modern hotel on the bank of the Rhone River. The hotel has a gastronomic restaurant - Les 3 Dômes - which overlooks Lyon and the Rhône river. The...
More Info
4* Cour Des Loges Lyon from £517
The Cour des Loges Hotel is a historic and charming hotel made up of four private residences dating back from the 14th, 16th and 17th centuries. The hotel has an indoor swimming...
More Info
Forthcoming Lyon Events
Festival of Lights in Lyon
Bocuse d'Or in Lyon
Lyon Articles
The Museum of Contemporary Art in Lyon
Parc de la Tete d'Or in Lyon
Lyon's Festival of Lights
Festival in Lyon's amphitheatres
Long weekend in Lyon
Send to a Friend
Email Newsletter
Subscribe to the Railbookers newsletter for all our latest special offers and news.
