Lyon, France

Lyon
View of Old Lyon and the towers of the Cathédrale St-Jean. Photo Creative Commons License Diego Cupolo.

Lyon is the capital of the Rhone-Alpes region and the second-largest city in France. Located just two hours from Paris on the TGV, the city of Lyon is rich with religious and historical sites. It was first an important Roman capital, then a major Christian center. Today, Lyon is world-renowned for its history, architecture, culture and gourmet restaurants. There are many sights of religious interest in Lyon - see below for some of the best.


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Lyon Cathedral
This church with a stout facade is the seat of the highest-ranking archbishop in France. Built from 1180 to 1480, it combines both Romanesque and Gothic styles.
Mosquée de Lyon
Lyon's mosque was built in the 1990s in a modern style by Lyon architects and funded in large part by the king of Saudi Arabia. Regular guided tours are available.
Amphithéatre des Trois Gaules
Constructed around 20 BC, this amphitheater was the site of martyrdom of St. Blandine and other early Christians.
Grande Synagogue
Lyon's synagogue was built in 1864 on the site of a former salt storehouse.
Saint-Martin-D'Ainay Abbey
This Romanesque Benedictine monastery has Lyon's oldest church, dating from 1107.