Amphitheatre of the Three Gauls

On the Croix-Rousse hill

The remains lie on the Croix-Rousse hill, partly uncovered. The setting is that of a lively, down-to-earth district, far from the image of ancient Lyon one might imagine: that contrast is part of the charm. People come to understand how the Roman city occupied the heights, and to see for themselves what survives of a Lugdunum entertainment building.

The Sanctuary of the Three Gauls

The amphitheatre was part of the federal Sanctuary of the Three Gauls, where the sixty Gallic tribes gathering at Lugdunum celebrated the cult of Rome and Augustus. This political and religious role gives the building a significance beyond a simple entertainment venue: it recalls that Lugdunum was an important centre of Roman Gaul. A detour here helps link the site to the city's wider history.

A Roman building from around the year 19

The building, in Roman architectural style, is dated to around the year 19. Its remains are partly uncovered, which invites an archaeologist's eye: you picture the overall form from what remains visible. It is better to come not expecting a fully preserved monument, but with the wish to read a site, its volumes and its setting on the hill.

A classified monument

The remains have been classified as a monument historique since 27 November 1961. The record gives no hours or prices: before heading up, check access conditions with the tourist office or official sources. Pair the visit with a walk around the Croix-Rousse district, whose atmosphere contrasts with the centre and rounds off your discovery of Lyon.

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