The soul of Autun reveals itself through five gems of heritage steeped in history. Each site awakens an indelible fascination that transcends time. At the heart of this legacy, the Saint-Lazare Cathedral stands like a Gothic beacon, protecting the sacred relics of Lazarus. The power of the Roman theater, a witness to grand spectacles, reveals the splendor of Antiquity. The elegance of the Temple of Janus, discreet yet emblematic, sparks curiosity and wonder in the face of forgotten deities. These treasures, set in a natural cradle, invite a cultural journey that every visitor must undertake. Feeling the significance of these historical monuments connects us to the richness of our shared past. Let yourself be seduced by *the timeless beauty* of Autun and its surroundings.
Highlights
Saint-Lazare Cathedral: A Gothic masterpiece with unique relics, stunning stained glass, and various architectural details.
Roman Theater: A colossal monument over 2000 years old, with astonishing acoustics and a capacity of 20,000 spectators.
Temple of Janus: Mysterious Gallo-Roman remains proving the religious significance of Autun, located near the city center.
Saint-André Gate: Majestic entrance of the ramparts, a symbol of the city’s greatness in the Middle Ages.
Bibracte: Archaeological site of the Gallic city, offering a captivating insight into the life of the Gauls and the pre-Roman era.
The Saint-Lazare Cathedral #
The building, freshly renovated after thirty years of work, immediately captures the attention of visitors. Built between 1120 and 1130, its story begins as an pilgrimage church, before becoming an admired cathedral. The cathedral houses the relics of Lazarus, visible only once a year, adding a sacred dimension to its reputation.
Outside, the Gothic style reveals itself in all its majesty, while a quick glance inside unveils a precious Roman core. The contemporary stained glass by Jean-Michel Alberola brings a fascinating light, transforming according to the angle of view. A visit to this cathedral is a must between 10 am and 5 pm, except during religious services.
The Roman Theater #
Constructed around 70 AD, this ancient theater, although partially destroyed, impresses with the architectural rigor of its 148-meter diameter. At the time, a majestic wall loomed over the theater, adding to its aura. Ancient performances still resonate within its walls, offering visitors a fascinating acoustic experience. A simple vocal play allows a speaker on stage to be distinctly heard by an audience member high up in the stands.
The site remains freely accessible, captivating from the first glance. Guided tours, offered from June to September, immerse the curious in the thrilling history of this building. To be reserved with the tourist office, these tours cost about 6 euros per person.
The Temple of Janus #
In the heart of the Genetoye district, the Temple of Janus rises, a fascinating relic from the Gallo-Roman era. The rediscovery of the mysteries surrounding this square cella has fascinated archaeologists and history enthusiasts. This monument, a witness to a vibrant past, evokes the remarkable devotion of the ancient inhabitants towards the unknown antique deities.
Located near bustling streets, the temple offers a striking contrast to the surrounding tranquility. Guided tours are available between June and September, and also cost 6 euros per person, to be reserved through the tourist office.
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The Saint-André Gate #
The Saint-André Gate stands as one of the four historical gates of Autun, an essential link in its ramparts. Named after a protecting saint, this spectacular gate illustrates the architectural know-how of the time. Serving both as an entry point and an impressive monument, it has withstood centuries, preserving its splendor intact.
This gate is not open for visits, but the Albert Montremot promenade, which links it to the Temple of Janus, offers a picturesque setting. The remnants of the Roman era remind visitors of the grandeur of this ancient city. Freely accessible, it attracts enthusiasts of historical heritage.
Bibracte, the Gallic City #
At the summit of Mont Beuvray, the remains of Bibracte reveal a thriving Gallic city. This ancient fortified center housed thousands of inhabitants, thriving with commercial and cultural activities. The museum, showcasing the lifestyle of the Gauls, invites visitors to delve into a fascinating past, supported by bold interactive exhibits.
The archaeological site, open year-round with explanatory panels, merits thorough exploration. A complete visit requires about half a day, to admire the beauty of the surrounding nature. The modest entrance fee to the museum, 10 euros, and free admission for children under 12 make this experience accessible to all.
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