Roman Theaters, Lyon
The Théâtres Romains, a Roman theater-odeum-temple complex, is in a park south of the Notre Dame de Fourvière Basilica in Lyon.
History of the Roman Theaters
Lyon's Roman theater is the oldest in France, built by order of Augustus from 17 to 15 BC and expanded during the reign of Hadrian.
What to See at the Roman Theaters
Ruins of three ancient Roman structures - a theater, odeum and temple - cluster together on Fourvière Hill just south of the Notre-Dame Basilica. The theater has steep seating galleries, a decorated floor, and the foundations of a large stage.
The odeum (or odeon) is a much smaller theater that was used for musical shows and poetry competitions. It was richly decorated and its floor still contains inlaid marble and porphyry.
Only the foundations remain of the third structure, a temple dedicated in 160 AD to the goddess Cybele.
Quick Facts on the Roman Theaters
Site Information | |
Names: | Roman Theaters · Théâtres Romains de Fourvière |
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Categories: | archaeological sites; theaters; temples; ruins |
Dedication: | Cybele |
Dates: | 17 BCE-160 CE |
Status: | ruins |
Visitor and Contact Information | |
Coordinates: | 45.759619° N, 4.819522° E |
Address: | 6 rue de l'Antiquaille Lyon, France |
Hours: | Daily 7am-7pm |
Lodging: | View hotels near the Roman Theaters |
References
- Personal visit (October 2004).
- Frommer's France 2005
More Information
- Photos of the Roman Theaters - here on Sacred Destinations
Map of the Roman Theaters, Lyon
Below is a location map and aerial view of the Roman Theaters. Using the buttons on the left (or the wheel on your mouse), you can zoom in for a closer look, or zoom out to get your bearings. To move around, click and drag the map with your mouse.