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
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

Note: This information was accurate when first published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours and prices can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip.

References

1. Personal visit (October 2004).
2. Frommer's France 2005

More Information

• Photos of the Roman Theaters - here on Sacred Destinations