Lugdunum

Lugdunum, founded in 43 BC on an existing Gallic settlement, became the capital of the Roman province of Gallia Lugdunensis and one of the most important cities north of the Alps. Uniquely privileged, it was the only city outside Rome permitted to mint gold and silver coins, and it housed the largest aqueduct complex outside the capital. Major structures include a theatre seating 10,000-15,000, an odeon for 3,000, and the Amphitheatre of the Three Gauls built in 12 BC. The Lugdunum museum preserves exceptional artefacts including the Lyon Tablet, a bronze recording of Emperor Claudius's speech.