Ruins & Reunions
This weekend my dear friend Michelle came to visit and we explored Geneva together. She and I went to graduate school together last year and she is spending the summer working in Brussels. It was so wonderful to spend time with a close friend and enjoy this beautiful city!
We climbed to the top of Saint Peter's Cathedral and saw an extraordinary view of the city, lake, and mountains. On our way down we discovered the most incredible thing.
The city of Geneva began as a small settlement centered around a church that was built in the 4th century A.D. The ruins of that original church are preserved directly beneath the Cathedral.
Disclaimer: I am not a historian. I learned all of this from the museum and accompanying materials. So, take it with a grain of salt. The history of the city of Geneva begins on the site of Saint Peter's Cathedral. Archeologists have discovered several layers of buildings and structures beneath the modern church - dating all the way back to 100 B.C. The church as it stands today was built in the 12th century, but since the 4th century this land was occupied by a church. Over the years, buildings were added, moved, and changed resulting in the present structure.
Prior to the 4th century when the first Christian church was built on the land, it appears that this area was the center of a small settlement. In fact, archeologists discovered a tomb of an ancient aristocrat whose burial suggests his position of authority. This tomb dates back to 100 B.C. and the entire settlement seems to have been built around it.
Thus, the city of Geneva as it stands today was built to surround a church that sits on top of an ancient settlement over 2,000 years old! Absolutely amazing.
^^ Ruins of the old church! There are many layers here, dating from around the 5th century.
^^ It's amazing to me how incredibly well it is preserved.
^^ This is the church baptistery. It was moved several times over the years, and this one is from around the 8th century.
^^ You know, just a stone with writing from the Roman Empire. No big deal.
^^ This incredibly detailed mosaic floor was once the room where the bishop welcomed his guests in the 4th century.
^^ In the room of Roman artifacts found on the site.
^^ You can really see how the Cathedral is now the center of Geneva. This view is incredible.
^^ This building is an architectural wonder. So beautiful!
^^ Can I just live up here?
^^ My new favorite place in Geneva. A good workout and only 5 francs to climb the windy staircase to the top!
^^ We also walked down to see the Jet d'Eau up close - one of the largest fountains in the world. It's incredibly tall when you get up next to it - and so pretty!
^^ And windy. And misty. And bright.
^^ This side of the lake has an awesome view of the city. Not to mention all of the boats!
^^ Thankful for a WONDERFUL weekend adventure with an even more wonderful friend!
Happy day to you dear reader, be blessed. Until next time!