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The historic city of Vienne lines the banks of the Rhône River in the Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France, just over 32 kilometers south of Lyon. Inhabited since pre-Roman times, today the town is an important commercial and industrial centre, as well as a thriving tourist locale.
When visiting Vienne, consider timing your visit with the world renowned annual Jazz festival, which is held each July, or just come any time to soak up the sights and culture of the region. While here, be sure to check out the 11th century gothic-styled cathedral of St. Maurice, which interestingly boasts three aisles, but no transepts or apse. The west front of the basilica overhangs the river and is quite stunning, but unfortunately much of the ornamentation was damaged during the Wars of Religion of the mid-1600s. In addition, the 9th century Romanesque basilica of St. Peter that is located here is worth a stop. |