Temple of Janus

The Temple of Janus in Autun, France, is a significant Romano-Celtic religious structure located northwest of the ancient city of Augustodunum, across the River Arroux. Despite its common name, archaeological evidence confirms it was not dedicated to the god Janus; the actual deity venerated there remains unknown. Built in the 1st century CE during the Gallo-Roman period, the temple likely replaced an earlier wooden structure dedicated to a Gallic deity.

The site features a vast sanctuary revealed by excavations between 2013 and 2016. The temple itself retains two sides of its square cella, standing approximately 24 meters high. Vestiges of an ambulatory and side structures are also visible. The structure was abandoned in the Early Middle Ages, with materials later reused for medieval defensive works. It is a public tourist attraction and was designated a monument historique in 1840, appearing on the first list of protected historical French monuments.

The remaining visible structures consist of two brick walls forming part of the central sanctuary, which was originally surrounded by a gallery supporting a roof. The site is currently situated in a grassy field, offering a peaceful setting for reflection on Roman history. While specific opening hours and admission fees are not detailed in the current sources, the site is accessible to visitors interested in ancient history. This landmark provides a profound insight into the religious and architectural practices of the Gallo-Roman era in Burgundy. Travelers can explore the ruins to appreciate the scale and preservation of this ancient sanctuary.