The city of Lyon, located on the confluence of the Rhône and the Saône rivers, has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The city expanded over the centuries from west to east, from the right bank of the Saône to the left bank of the Rhône.
In Roman times it was known as Lugdunum and became the main city and capital of Gaul.
In the 11th century Lyon became the seat of the Primate of Gaul. In the 15th century the city held several fairs during the year, and became an important center of trade. Lyon became the center of the silk industry during the 17th and 18th centuries. Currently Lyon is second most important metropolitan area in France.