Autun — The Keys of Augustodunum

Your quest for the "Keys of Augustodunum" begins in front of the Porte Saint-André in Autun, a monument classified as a historic monument in 1840. This ancient gate, probably built in the 3rd century AD as part of the late Augustan enclosure, marks one of the historic access points to the imperial city. Its masonry structure of rubble and cut stone, with its corner towers, immediately immerses you in the defensive system that surrounded the city over a perimeter of approximately 5 km. It is here, at the eastern end of Rue de la République, that your exploration of the Gallo-Roman heritage of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté begins.

Continue your itinerary towards the Roman Theater of Autun, a site classified as a historic monument in 1840. Built at the beginning of the 2nd century AD (around 95-110 AD), it was designed for approximately 17,000 spectators, with a diameter of 115 m for the cavea. Its underground galleries, intended for the movement of actors, testify to Roman ingenuity. In the Middle Ages, it was partially reused as a stone quarry before being restored in the 20th century for modern performances. This theater, one of the largest in Gaul, illustrates the architectural richness of Autun and its urban continuity.

Your journey then takes you to the Temple of Janus in Autun, a Gallo-Roman sanctuary from the 2nd century AD, classified as a historic monument in 1840. It features a square structure 18 m on each side and a similar height, with four facades pierced by doors. This sandstone ashlar temple, with its barrel vaults, is a rare example of a Gallo-Roman temple still standing in France. It is located outside the ancient enclosure, probably on a major road of the time. This emblematic site of Autun, restored in the 19th and 20th centuries, is a key point for understanding the spirituality of ancient Augustodunum.

Continue your stroll towards the Porte d'Arroux, another ancient gate of Autun, classified as a historic monument on July 22, 1840. Built in the 3rd century AD, it is located west of the city, on the banks of the Arroux river. This masonry structure of rubble and cut stone, with its two corner towers, is an integral part of the 5 km perimeter defensive system. Like the Porte Saint-André, it is a testament to the continuous urban occupation of Autun from Antiquity. Close to the historic city center, it connects the Roman past to medieval and modern life.

Your itinerary concludes with the discovery of the Cathédrale Saint-Lazare d'Autun, a Romanesque church built between the 11th and 12th centuries (around 1120-1146), classified as a historic monument in 1840. Its 75 m length and 21 m high nave, adorned with sculptures by Gislebertus, such as the tympanum of the Resurrection, make it a major monument in Burgundy. It houses relics of Saint Lazare and was the seat of the bishopric of Autun. By exploring Rue des Bancs, a historic street lined with half-timbered houses, then Place de la République, the historic heart of Autun, you measure the continuity of history, from Roman foundations to the medieval and contemporary effervescence of this city in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté. This circuit leaves you with a deep understanding of Autun's heritage, from ancient gates to Romanesque splendors.