Archaeological Site, Geneva 
Sign outside the cathedral leading to the excavations below.
See all photos in our Geneva Archaological Site Photo Gallery.
Location map and aerial view of Archaeological Site. For a larger interactive view, see our Geneva Map.
What to See
The Site Archéologique (Archaeological Site) in Geneva was discovered underneath the Cathédrale St-Pierre when its foundations needed reinforcement in 1976. So far, excavations beneath the cathedral have uncovered:
- late Roman mosaic floors;
- two 4th-century Christian shrines;
- portions of three more early churches; and
- an 11th-century crypt that was part of the first Romanesque cathedral on the site (completed c.1000 AD).
The ruins encompass so many different eras that they can be confusing, but there are audio guides in English and excellent signs (with diagrams and drawings) in French and English to help.
The foundations are not terribly exciting (being piles of stone), but the in-situ mosaics and artifacts are quite interesting. The self-guided walking tour is well laid-out, with good lighting and sturdy catwalks leading visitors around an underground maze of ancient history.
Quick Facts
Site Information |
| Names: | Archaeological Site; Site archéologique |
| Location: | Geneva, Canton Geneva, Switzerland |
| Categories: | City Ruins; Churches |
| Faiths: | Original/Primary: Ancient Roman Current/Secondary: Christianity |
| Status: | ruins |
| Architecture: | Roman, Paleochristian |
| Features: | Roman Mosaics |
Visitor Information |
| Coordinates: | 46.20114° N, 6.148025° E (view on Google Maps) |
| Address: | Cathedrale St-Pierre, Cours St-Pierre 6, 1204 Geneva, Switzerland |
| Hours: | Tue-Sun 11-5 |
| Cost: | 8 SF |
| Photography: | Permitted |
Travel Resources for Geneva
- Geneva Map - our detailed interactive map of Geneva, plus hand-picked links to more
- Geneva Guided Tours - book sightseeing tours and activities in Geneva
- Geneva Hotels - check availability, maps, photos and reviews, then book at the guaranteed lowest rate
- Geneva Hostels - reserve budget lodgings with no booking fees
- Geneva Car Rentals - get the lowest rate by comparing multiple car companies at a glance
- Geneva Travel Forum - tips, answers and advice on Geneva tourism
Article Sources
Article written by Holly Hayes with reference to the following sources:
- Personal visit (December 23, 2006).
- Fodor's Switzerland 2005.
Article last updated: 10/08/2009.
