Lousonna and Lausanne

19 July 2022

Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, Lacus Lemanus, the small Gallo-Roman settlement of Lousonna, boasted between 1,500 and 1,200 inhabitants, mostly merchants, fishermen, and artisans.

Its commercial prosperity was due to the privileged situation between the lake and overland routes connecting the Rhine and Rhone networks. From the end of the 1st century BC through the 4th century AD, Lousonna developed steadily under the influence of the Roman Empire and romanisation.

The town was a typical example of the Roman model, featuring a city grid plan, portico-lined avenues, houses with interior courts, artisans’ quarters, sanctuaries, a forum, a theatre, and other public buildings.

During the 4th century, the lakeside town was abandoned in favour of the hill, where the medieval and modern city of Lausanne developed.

(Quelle and source: Musée Romain de Lausanne-Vidy)