Discover the world unesco site that is LYON

Founded as Lugdunum in 43 B.C., one of the great cities of the Roman Empire, Lyon thrived as a centre of politics, commerce, and culture. What specially strikes the heart is its place at the very sunrise of the Christian faith. 

Just three steps from Christ—Jesus taught John the Evangelist, who taught Saint Polycarp, who in turn trained and sent Saint Pothin to Lyon who was to become it's first bishop. Saint Irenaeus, a disciple of Pothin, traveled from Smyrna to support him and became Lyon’s second bishop after Pothin’s martyrdom. Together they nurtured the early Christian community and firmly established Lyon’s role as a cornerstone of Church history.

Through the centuries, Lyon has known both grandeur and trial. It flourished during the Golden Age of the Renaissance, endured the upheaval, hope, and suffering of the French Revolution, which brought forth a new group of heroic Christian martyrs, rising again and eventually becoming known as the capital of the French Resistance during World War II. 

From its earliest Christian roots to its enduring spirit of courage, Lyon is a city where faith, history, and resilience converge. 

This is not just a city — it’s a journey waiting to be walked. 

Step into Lyon’s living history with us and discover the faith, courage, and stories that continue to inspire today.