History

Nyon evidences a prestigious past, being already known at the time of the Helvetians and becoming later the location of the roman colony Iulia Equestris. The pre-roman era hardly left any traces apart from the name Noviodunum which will frequently reappear through the ages. There are however plenty of Roman remains. Indeed, the colony Iulia Equestris founded by Julius Caesar between 49 and 27 BC lasted for nearly 3 centuries.

Many buildings still visible today in the old town of Nyon testify of the importance of this period of time. The existence of a basilica whereof part of the basement was found and on which the Roman Museum is now established; and the amphitheatre which was discovered in 1996 are more remarkable remains of this epoch. The old town walls but also those of Geneva and Lausanne were constructed with stone blocks originating from the Roman town of Nyon.

In more recent times, the end of th 18th century was a particularly prosperous period for Nyon especially thanks to busy trading. Various houses dating of around 1780 are living proof of it. During the same years, between 1781 and 1813, the porcelain manufacture was flourishing. Pieces of this production are today a part of the collection of the Historic and Porcelain Museum in Nyon castle. The castle underwent complete renovation from 1999 to 2006, in maintaining its original appearance of 1574 to 1583.

Nowadays, the national and international radiance of the town is assured by various well-known annual events such as the documentary film festival Visions du Réel in April or the Paléo Festival in July. The presence of several international organizations like UEFA for football or UNI (Global Union) likewise contributes to the Nyon’s reputation.