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 |
| Faiths: | Original/Primary: Ancient Roman Current/Secondary: Christianity |
| Categories: | City Ruins; Churches |
| Architecture: | Roman, Paleochristian |
| Features: | Roman Mosaics |
| Status: | ruins |
| Photo gallery: | Archaeological Site Photo Gallery |
| Visitor Information | |
| Address: | Cathedrale St-Pierre, Cours St-Pierre 6, 1204 Geneva, Switzerland |
| Coordinates: | 46.20114° N, 6.148025° E (view on Google Maps) |
| Lodging: | View hotels near this location |
| Opening hours: | Tue-Sun 11-5 |
| Cost: | 8 SF |
Note: This information was accurate when published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip.
Travel Resources
- Geneva Map - our detailed interactive map of Geneva, plus hand-picked links to more
- Geneva Hotels - check availability, maps, photos and reviews, and book at the guaranteed lowest price
- Geneva Guided Tours - sightseeing tours and activities in Geneva
- Geneva Car Rentals - get the lowest rate by comparing multiple car companies at a glance
Article Sources
- Personal visit (December 23, 2006).
- Fodor's Switzerland 2005.
Last updated on October 8, 2009.
