The Gallo-Roman Museum is an intriguing museum that tells the story of the Roman occupation of Lyon. Built into the hillside, it has an unusual entrance down a spiral ramp that leads you to the exhibits. Admire the trinkets and tools that were part of local life 2,000 years ago, as well as collections that pre-date the Romans.
Descend the concrete slope into the depths of history to view the museum’s unearthed treasures. It is known for its stunning mosaics, including the Circus Mosaic, a true highlight due to its rarity. It is an almost unique portrayal of the chariot races in Lyon. See the remaining parts of the Altar of Rome and Augustus and the Lyon Tablet, which contains a transcribed speech made by Emperor Claudius.
Discover items that were once a part of daily life, including jewelry, dishes and small statues. Much of the display consists of funerary items, including the Sarcophagus of the Triumph of Bacchus, a marble monument to a triumph over India.
See the scale model of the town, as it was in Roman times, complete with the nearby amphitheater and smaller Odeon theater. After visiting the museum, make your way to these nearby sites on the hillside and imagine the events that took place here millennia ago. Note the impressive acoustics in the theater, which is still sometimes used for concerts today.
The museum is closed on Mondays but otherwise open daily from morning until early evening. There is an entrance fee with concessions for children and families.
The Gallo-Roman Museum is in the Fourvière Hill region, just west of the center of Lyon. Take the metro to the Vieux Lyon stop and walk west for 15 minutes to reach the museum. You can also ride the city’s funicular to either Fourvière or Minimes-Théâtres Romains. Nearby attractions include the Notre Dame Basilica of Fourvière and the St. John the Baptist Cathedral.
