Step back into ancient Roman history at the Amphitheatre of the Three Gauls in Lugdunum (modern-day Lyon). Built in 19 AD at the foot of La Croix-Rousse hill near the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, this historic site originally formed part of the Sanctuary of the Three Gauls. Financed by C.
Julius Rufus to honor Rome and Augustus, it served as a gathering site for delegations from 60 Gallic tribes. You can explore a space that evolved from a modest sanctuary venue holding 1,800 spectators to an expanded 2nd-century arena seating roughly 20,000 residents from Lugdunum and surrounding areas. As you wander through its surviving structures, you will witness the historic location identified as the site of the martyrdoms of Saints Blandina and Pothinus during the persecutions of 177.
Today, classified as a monument historique, the preserved remains—including the supporting walls for half of the amphitheatre's superstructure and the oval arena space—are integrated directly into the scenic Jardin des Plantes. Visiting this landmark offers you a fascinating glimpse into Lyon's ancient Roman civic life and early Christian heritage, set right within a public park environment.
What to see at amphitheater of Lyon
- Ancient origin dating back to 19 AD under Tiberius Caesar Augustus
- Historic site of the 177 AD martyrdoms of Saints Blandina and Pothinus
- Commemorative post marking Pope John Paul II's 1986 visit
- Surviving half-superstructure supporting walls set in the Jardin des Plantes
- Inscribed stones detailing ancient Gallic tribes and benefactor C. Julius Rufus
Visiting tips
Look for the commemorative post set in the middle of the arena, which marks both the site of the 177 AD Christian martyrdoms and Pope John Paul II's visit in 1986.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Early morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
amphitheater of Lyon is easy to reach on Lyon’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Lyon travel guide.
See the full Lyon travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.