L'Abbaye Saint-Martin d'Ainay, Lyon

Facade of the 12th-century Abbaye Saint-Martin d'Ainay. Photo licensed under GFDL.

In the center of Lyon, between the city's two rivers, is the Abbey of St Martin d'Ainay, a Romanesque Benedictine monastery. The architecture of the abbey itself is not overly remarkable, but it is worth a look for its venerable age and well-restored artwork.

The abbey church of St Martin is Lyon's oldest church, constructed in 1107. A masterpiece of Lyon's Romanesque art, its restoration in the 19th century revealed the full beauty of its capitals, medallions and porch bell tower.

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