Fourviere Hill is where the history of Lyon is! If you’ve read the Asterix comics, then you know Lugdunum – Capital of the Gauls, because that’s what they called Lyon all that time ago. On this hill then, which once upon a time used to be the centre of Lyon, are three awesome attractions. The first of these is the museum – an architectural marvel constructed in such a manner that it blends right into the historic hill rather than stand out. You can barely tell it’s there from the outside, yet the spacious interior comprehensively details Lugdunum life from 43 BC to the early Christian era. The main collection, called the Five Centuries of Discovery are largely made up of objects, inscriptions, statues, currencies and ceramics, many of them over 2000 years old.

The Roman Theatre complex on the other hand is probably the city’s most visited attraction. It was dedicated to Emperor Augustus and can hold 4500 people; renovations now have converted that to 10000 – a necessary improvement. Why? Because every summer the nights here light up with Nuits de Forviere festival, a cultural highlight of Lyon. Close by is the small Odeon Theatre (regularly used for performances even now), and these together are one of the only two such pairs in Gaul.

You can cover the entire complex simply walking around. There will usually be some college students around, relaxing on the stairs. See if you can engage in conversation.

• For the best experience, visit the museum first, then the theatres.
• The English audio guide is brilliant

• Adults : 4 Euros , Age (18-25) and large families and groups of 10+ : 2.50 Euros.
• Entry is free up to eighteen years.
• 2 Euros per person for Guided tours.
• Temporary exhibits are for EUR 3 or EUR 2 for reduced.
• Free entrance for all guests on Thursday.

• Vieux Lyon Metro Station

• Testad'Oca
• La Terrasse De L'antiquaille
• Restaurant Tetedoie

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