Jardin de Cybèle

The Cybele archaeological garden

An ancient stop on the Vienne audio-guided tour, the Cybele archaeological garden reveals impressive remains, most of them listed as historic monuments. In the heart of the city, it holds the ruins of the former buildings of the first-century Roman forum.

The heart of the Gallo-Roman city

In the time of the Roman Empire, the forum was the main square of the city, the centre of economic, political and social life. It was here that religious festivals, political proclamations and gladiator fights took place. In the standing walls one can still identify a residential quarter, a roofless hall that probably hosted the assembly's meetings, and the arcades of an imposing portico, probably an entrance to the forum.

What to see

The excavations have yielded many ancient objects: coins, weights, needles, glass bracelets and ceramics, witnesses to the long Roman presence on this territory. Walk through the garden to grasp the past grandeur of the forum and imagine the daily life of the ancient city.

Practical information

The Cybele garden is in the centre of Vienne. Entry is generally free; opening hours should be checked depending on the season, as events may be held there in the evening.

What does the Cybele garden hold ?

The remains of the Roman forum of Vienne, the main square of the Gallo-Roman city in the first century.

What was found during the excavations ?

Coins, weights, needles, glass bracelets and ceramics from Roman times.