It's a unique piece revealed by the Archives of the Rhône and the metropolitan area of Lyon: a 33-meter parchment scroll dating back to the 14th century. Carefully preserved for centuries, this document impresses as much with its spectacular dimensions as with its state of preservation. Made up of 43 sewn parchment skins and weighing over 10 kilograms, it ranks among the longest medieval rolls preserved in France.
A precious testimony of medieval society
This exceptional document comes from the famous Abbey of Île-Barbe, once a religious and economic pillar of the Lyon region. Through its lines, it details the possessions, rights, and organization of the abbey, offering...a genuine snapshot of life in the Middle Ages. A rare resource that helps us better understand the administrative practices of the time, far removed from our modern Excel files.
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Long kept away from light, the roll has recently undergone an extensive restoration. An artisan's work that has stabilized the document and finally made it visible to the public, d.
under optimal conditions. A technical feat that reminds us how preserving heritage is a unique art.
An ephemeral exhibition not to be missed
The public will be able to discover this rare piece from April 23 to 25 in Lyon, with free access to the Departmental and Metropolitan Archives at 34 rue du Général Mouton-Duvernet in Lyon 3rd. To enrich the visit, there will be mediation times as well as a conference organized on the evening of April 23 to unveil the secrets of this extraordinary scroll and the techniques used for its restoration.
Address: 34 Rue du Général Mouton-Duvernet, 69003 Lyon, France