One of the French cities today has the unique status of the main city of the so-called Lyon metropolis. According to a poll conducted last year, it was named among the best for life, while even Paris was left behind. And the history of Lyon is filled with both happy and tragic moments.
From Lugdun to Lyon
There are several beautiful legends about the appearance of the toponym, because the first name of the settlement is Lugdun (can be translated as "crow's mountain"). Subsequently, it was transformed into a name more familiar to modern people - Lyon.
In the 1st century BC, the Gallic tribes founded a place for trade and a fortress of Lugdun in the local territories; and in 43 BC Roman troops came here and expanded Lugdun. The fortress begins to acquire the features of a city, private houses and public buildings appear, moreover, stone instead of wooden, roads are being improved. The settlement is located at the crossroads and plays an important role in the economic, political, military and religious life of the region.
Lyon during the early Middle Ages
This continues until the 5th century, when the next period in the history of Lyon begins, associated with the decline of Gaul. Over the next two centuries, the city is in the epicenter of armed "showdown" between countries and peoples. Since 534, the city has been ruled by the Franks, which does not save it from the predatory raids of its neighbors.
The rebirth begins in the 9th century, when the Carolingians come to power, the city returns to its former greatness and flourishes again. Unfortunately, the happy period does not last long, in fact Lyon depends on the Church, and the clarification of relations between the countries continues, the city is either French or under the shadow of the German Empire. The Hundred Years War also left a terrible mark on the history of the city.
Renaissance and Manufacture
In the XV-XVI centuries. a new stage in the development of Lyon begins, the two largest fairs attract thousands of wealthy merchants and bankers from different countries to the city. The first book in France was published here, representatives of the royal court are frequent guests of Lyon. Every fourth inhabitant works in weaving factories; silk production has a significant impact on the economy of the city and the region.
The 18th century is marked by revolutionary events that have had an extremely negative impact on the city. It was actually destroyed, ancient architecture was destroyed, manufactories stopped, residents were shot or interned. In the following centuries, the city was never able to regain its former glory and grandeur.
