Geneva Cathedral Archaeological Site

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.

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.