Facing Vienne across the Rhône, several hectares of Roman ruins constitute the site of ST-ROMAIN-EN-GAL, also the name of the modern town surrounding it. The excavations (still ongoing), just across the road bridge from Vienne, attest to a significant community dating from the first century BC to the third AD, and give a vivid picture of the daily life and domestic architecture of Roman France. You enter through the Musée Archéologique de St-Romain-en-Gal (site & museum March–Oct Tues–Sun 10am–6pm, otherwise Tues–Sun 10am–5pm; €3.80; free English audioguide), which displays frescoes, mosaics and other objects recovered from the site, along with explanatory models. The ruins themselves are clearly laid out, with illuminating reconstructions and informative but not overly technical explanatory plaques in English – ideal for adults and children alike. Be sure to check out the Romans' lavishly decorated marble public toilets, by the entry ramp to the dig.
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