The Spectacular Mosaics of Lyon France
A few years ago, my husband and I had the great privilege to be guided through Lyon, France by a local mosaic artist. We started at the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere, also known as the Basilique de Fourviere, and was intrigued by its history and architecture. We rode the funicular to get to the top of the hill which was really fun.
The basilica was built in 1884 but the finishing touches of the interior were not complete until 1964. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most visited sanctuaries in France. The basilica's design is both Romanesque and Byzantine architecture and has 4 main towers and a bell tower.
Inside the Basilica, mosaics and stained glass are everywhere. There are two levels – the main level with the sanctuary and the lower level containing the crypt of Saint-Jean. Spending time in the sanctuary to admire the sumptuous mosaics and paintings is very well worth it.
This is a sample of the wonderful mosaics you will see inside the Basilica. It is entitled the "Mosaic of the first Christians." It is right inside the door near the entrance and will capture your attention with all the wonderful details.
The Basilica has several large stained glass windows and this is a fine example of what you will see inside the sanctuary.
Sitting high on top of Fourviere hill, the view of Lyon is wonderful! After we had visited the Basilica, we were treated to a marvelous restaurant where we could enjoy the Lyonaisse cuisine and the spectacular view.
Right next to the Basilique de Fourviere is the Gallo-Roman museum. This museum opened in 1975 and features beautifully preserved mosaic floors. The museum focuses on the daily life of the people that lived in this area and the adornment of their homes. The mosaics here are extensive and wonderful.
When visiting this museum, I was amazed and awed at how visitors were allowed to walk, stand, and touch these amazing floor mosaics. As I bent down to feel the mosaic floor, I envisioned myself back in Roman times and how luxurious these mosaics must have been in their original homes.