From the Allobroges to Roman Vienna
Vienne was the capital of the Allobroges before the Roman conquest, then developed into an important and prosperous imperial city. Ancient Vienna occupied both banks of the Rhône, as the remains in Vienne and Saint-Romain-en-Gal still demonstrate.
The experience is less a single monument than an open-air route: walls, streets, sanctuaries and archaeological finds trace several centuries of urban life.
A walk through central Vienne
In the town centre, the Temple of Augustus and Livia—begun around 20–10 BCE—is the most immediate landmark. The Cybèle archaeological garden preserves other monumental remains only a few streets away.
Built against the Pipet hillside around 40–50 CE, the Roman theatre still hosts performances. Access and opening arrangements can therefore change around the events calendar.
Everyday life at Saint-Romain-en-Gal
Across the river, the museum and archaeological site occupy a seven-hectare ancient district. Paved streets, houses, shops, workshops, baths and mosaics make the day-to-day life of the city unusually tangible.
The museum building and outdoor remains complement one another. Allowing time for both gives a fuller picture than visiting only the monumental sites in central Vienne.
Plan your day
Check current opening days, tickets and closures linked to performances. The temple interior is mainly accessible on scheduled visits, while the theatre has many stone steps; official visitor pages provide the latest access details.