I'm in Lyon for the evolution meeting and this was our day to see the city. We haven't been here for over 30 years.
I love European cities. They are simultaneously more modern and more ancient than cities in Canada and the USA. I love the cafes and bistros and I love the old buildings and the history.
Lyon was an ancient hill top Celtic fort when it was captured by the Romans in 43 BC. Under the Romans it grew rapidly on the hill overlooking the Rhône and Saône rivers. Lugdunum, the Roman city, was the capital of Gaul and its most important city.
Here's an example of a bistro from Pixdaus.
And here's a photo taken today by Ms. Sandwalk. This is the Roman amphitheater built in about 15AD under the reign of Augustus. Today it's known as Théâtres Romains de Fourvièreand it's still in use as an outdoor theater, although part of it is in ruins and the capacity is much less than it was 1800 years ago after it was expanded.
Tomorrow we're going to the flea market.
Neat picture of the city street.
ReplyDelete> Tomorrow we're going to the flea market.
That would be interesting, a European flea market--though I daresay they are the same all over the world.
(captcha word of the day: "dishable").
I'm in a mellow mood. Best wishes to you and the missus. Why stop there? and the evolutionists. :-)
On the sole trip we've ever won, we took a day trip from Geneva to Lyon. The city is gorgeous but "familiar" (I don't know... there are some places in Europe where Canadians would feel really at home, like Lyon and Munich), the fort is imposing, and the bakeries understood our high school French.
ReplyDeleteWe only got within walking distance of the train station (though that is quite a lot!), so any more stories and pictures would be much appreciated! :)
The hill looks pretty amazing. What got a chuckle out of me, though, was what passes for adventure holidays over there :)
You're going to let us know what went on at the conference too, yes?
On a side note, it's pretty weird requiring passport control only between Switzerland and its surrounding countries. Going from Italy to Austria to Germany: effortless :) At least the EEC stuff is good for travel.
As you surely know, Lyon is also one of the culinary capitals of France. I hope you get to have a few good dinners or (and!) lunches there.
ReplyDeleteDon't worry. Eating is one of my favorite hobbies. Tonight we're going to a Bocuse brasserie.
ReplyDeleteGreat! I've heard they serve good food (from reputable sources) but haven't been in one, if I remember correctly. Hope you enjoyed it.
ReplyDelete