Archaeological Site, Geneva

Archaeological Site, Geneva, Switzerland. Photo © Holly Hayes. View all images in our Archaeological Site Photo Gallery.

Archaeological Site, Geneva, Switzerland. Photo © Holly Hayes.

Late Roman mosaic pavement. Archaeological Site, Geneva, Switzerland. Photo © Holly Hayes.

Archaeological Site, Geneva, Switzerland. Photo © Holly Hayes.

Excavations beneath Geneva's cathedral have revealed Roman mosaics, several Early Christian churches and a medieval crypt. A catwalk leads visitors through the ancient ruins.

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:

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 on Archaeological Site

Site Information
Names:	Cathedral Archaeological Site; Cathedral Archaeological Site, Geneva; Geneva Cathedral Archaeological Site ; Site archéologique
City:	Geneva
State:	Canton Geneva
Country:	Switzerland
cat:	Churches
faith:	Ancient Roman; Christianity
feat:	Roman Mosaics
style:	Roman; Paleochristian
Status:	ruins
Visitor and Contact Information
Address:	Cours St-Pierre 6, Geneva, Switzerland
Coordinates:	46.201140° N, 6.148025° E (view on Google Maps)
Opening Hours:	Tue-Sun 11-5
Cost:	8 SF
Lodging:	View hotels near this location

Note: This information was accurate when first 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.

Map of Archaeological Site

Below is a location map and aerial view of Archaeological Site. Using the buttons on the left (or the wheel on your mouse), you can zoom in for a closer look, or zoom out to get your bearings. To move around, click and drag the map with your mouse.

References

Personal visit (December 23, 2006).
Fodor's Switzerland 2005.

More Information

Archaeological Site, Geneva - Go Historic
Photos of Archaeological Site - here on Sacred Destinations

Article Info

Title:	Archaeological Site, Geneva
Author:	Holly Hayes
Last updated:	10/08/2009
Permalink:	www.sacred-destinations.com/switzerland/geneva-archaeological-site
Link code:	<a href="http://www.sacred-destinations.com/switzerland/geneva-archaeological-site">Archaeological Site, Geneva</a>