Archaeologists working in the Croix-Rousse neighborhood of Lyon, France, have uncovered ancient remains during excavations at the Neyret site. The findings include evidence of ancient homes, terrazzo flooring, terraced walls, and a masonry sewer dating back to the 2nd century. These artifacts were found beneath the former School of Fine Arts and are described by Naïs Novat, a communication officer for Lyon’s Archaeology Department, as not being "monumental," but they still offer valuable insight into the history of Lugdunum, a Gallic settlement established in 43 BCE, which is now the modern city of Lyon.
The excavation site is now open to the public, with guided tours available to help visitors understand the historical importance of the area. Quentin, one of the visitors, said the guided tour was more engaging than reading about history in books. Anne-Laure, a curator at the museum of casts, found it fascinating to see what still lies hidden beneath the city.
Since 2020, the City of Lyon has been working to rehabilitate the Neyret site. Preventive archaeological excavations were started in June 2024 because of the area’s historical significance. Tony Silvino, an operation manager at the Archaeology Department, noted that the area had not been thoroughly explored before. The site is considered emblematic of Lugdunum, with the nearby amphitheater and the possibility of uncovering the federal sanctuary of the Three Gauls, a major religious, administrative, and political center in ancient times.
Among the items found are fragments of pottery, an overturned oil lamp, and shells from snails and oysters. These artifacts, along with previous discoveries at the Jardin des Plantes and planned excavations at the amphitheater of the Three Gauls, will help build a more complete picture of the neighborhood’s ancient history. The findings contribute to the ongoing effort to uncover and preserve the rich heritage of Lyon’s past.
Archaeological Discoveries Unearth Ancient Remains in Lyon's Croix-Rousse Area
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