February Trip: Lyon

The trip of month retrospective is long overdue and I am way behind in posting updates.  The main reason for this is that I have been too busy to download photos as the trips are coming in rapid succession.  One of the more pleasant downsides of lots of travel.  I know, I know.  You Texans are shaking your heads.

Anyway, to celebrate the Budman's b-day in February, we decided it was to be a foodie weekend in a country known for its gastronomy, France. 



Where else to head? No, not Paris, but Lyon!



Lyon, the second largest city is France, was founded by the Roman Empire in 43 BC, when it was established as Lugdonum and used as a major Roman fortress. The site of Lyon was actually inhabited long before this time during the Bronze Age, but the town’s structure was put in place by the Romans.
Many Roman ruins and sights can be seen today.







Christianity was subsequently introduced into France (known as Gaul at the time) through Lyon and the centre was ruled by archbishops for centuries.  Many beautiful churches, including Church of Saint-Nizier, and other buildings offer an array of gothic, romanesque, baroque, and classical architecture.












































Lyon really took off in the 15th century, when it became the European trade capital and attracted traders from all over Europe and even Asia. At the time, Lyon’s trade fairs were the talk of Europe after being granted by Charles VII and later Louis XI. The city achieved new heights of prosperity in the 17th and 18th centuries owing to the brilliance and cunning of Louis XIV and its textile industry.
 

 

 


Today, the city is known for its temperate weather, even in February and its food, wine, and restaurants.  More on that in next blog.  After all, that is why we travelled to Lyon!