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Unbelievable 2,000-year-old Roman ruins discovered in Lyon

undefined undefined 23 janvier 2024 undefined 08h04

undefined undefined 20 février 2024 undefined 11h41

The Editor

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Lugdunum has just revealed a new page of its past, mysteriously preserved for two millennia. Roman remains dating back 2,000 years have recently been unearthed in the 5th arrondissement, on the plateau of the Fourvière hill, offering a fascinating glimpse of ancient Lyon.

It is an incredible discovery that took place during archaeological digs related to the construction of an ossuary in the old cemetery of Loyasse. The team of archaeologists, mandated to assess the plot, expected to find traces from the medieval era, but they unearthed much more than that.

A piece of the wall of Lugdunum

Under the foundations of a medieval tower from the 14th century, they revealed a massive wall, a sturdy legacy of ancient Rome. This imposing wall was none other than the rampart of the ancient city of Lugdunum, the Roman name for Lyon. This outstanding discovery added a new layer to the already rich history of the city of lights.


© JAMESDEMERS / PIXABAY

The city archaeologist of Lyon, in charge of this exploration through time, has emphasized the importance of this discovery: "The medieval tower was leaning against another very large wall. This wall is simply the remains of the rampart of the ancient city of Lugdunum". A tangible connection with the ancient Roman city that has left an indelible mark on the culture and architecture of Lyon.