Roman Ruins

I live in Lyon, France. Founded by the Romans in 43 BCE and dubbed “Lugdunum” (the hill of lights), the city was a communications hub for the Roman Empire. Consequently, you practically trip over Roman ruins! I love that!

We have an enormous Roman Amphitheater on Fourviere hill overlooking the city. Much of it remains today; it is absolutely stunning to visit.

During the summer months, evening events are held in the amphitheater: ballets, concerts, classic films. The first month that I lived in France, I was invited to see a Stravinsky Ballet. It was magical. We sat on the 2,000 year old rock benches with our baguette sandwiches and beer. It was a warm evening, with a full moon and, all around the Amphitheater, soft blue and purple lights had been draped on the trees. A moment I will never forget!

I’ve written an article about the evening shows—Les Nuits de Fourviere on Examiner.com Please click to see the Fourviere schedule and reserve tickets if you like. http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-44942-SF-France-Travel-Examiner~y2010m4d18-Outdoor-summer-concerts-in-Lyons-2000yearold-Roman-Amphitheater

A second amphitheater lies on the next hill over, Croix Rousse. There the Romans persecuted Christians by feeding them to lions. Lyon has a legend of how Blandina, a christian slave who not renounce her religion, was tied to a stake in the arena and the lions refused to touch her. She became Saint Blandina.

I also visited nearby Vaison La Romaine. There, the Roman ruins are in excellent condition. You can still clearly see: bathhouses, kitchens, toilets and such. There is also a Roman bridge that is still used today.

Here we are goofing off in the ruins!

Kitchen

Toilets

A demain.

Love,
Charley