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 Storytelling hour |
30 Boulevard Marius Vivier-Merle Lyon 69003 France +33 4 7862 1800 http://www.bm-lyon.fr/ bm@bm-lyon.fr |
The municipal library in Lyon has a floor reserved solely for very young children. The novels and picture books can be read on the spot or taken into one of the many adjoining reading rooms. But on Wednesdays and Saturdays when the clock strikes three, you can see numerous children rushing for the so-called hour of discovery, a mystery gathering to which adults are not invited. Through games and storytelling sessions, children from 6 to 8 can learn about art and the library's collections. Themes covered include Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland and other fables. The library also offers a storytelling hour for 3 to 4 year olds. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Lyon France |
The Croix-Rousse is known as the former den of the silk workers, which Lyon was famous for until the nineteenth century. The buildings were constructed in the nineteenth century to house the large weaving looms invented by Joseph-Marie Jacquard. The density and shape of the buildings transformed the Croix Rousse into a maze scattered with passageways, which gave them their name - the Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Benoit Mouren  |
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 Protestant temple in a bank! |
Place du Change Lyon 69005 France |
The Exchange has symbolised the prosperity of Lyons since the end of the Middle Ages for it is here that the famous fairs have been held. An establishment was constructed in the middle of the 17th century to welcome bankers and had to be extended very quickly - the architect J.G. Soufflot was chosen because of his success on the Presqu'île. From 1748 to 1750 he reintroduced classic architecture to renovate the façade of the lodge. He particulary stayed with the normal order of things in placing Ionic capital columns on the first level between each window, and a Doric architrave on the floor above. This little edifice is not without similarities to Hotel Dieu whose sobriety and harmony of classic architecture made Soufflot a success. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: wcities |
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Lyon France |
Old Lyon is situated at the foot of the Fourvière hill. Fourvière represented the very heart of the old town, which explains the large number of Gallo-Roman remains, which jut out from its slopes. The Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A 19th Century church |
Place de Fourvière Lyon 69005 France +33 4 7825 8619 http://www.fourviere.org/ info@fourviere.org |
Built between 1872 and 1884 by the architect Pierre Bossan, what has been nicknamed the "upside down elephant" is representative of the eclecticism of the end of the 19th century. The oriental and neo-classic influences (twisted columns and columned porticas) are mixed with architecture inspired by the medieval style machicolated towers, which creates a shocking fortress church. An observatory offers spectacular views, and under the basilica is a crypt, accessible from the esplanade. Admission ranges from free to EUR4. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: George Kyriazis |
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 Gallo-Roman archaeological site |
17 Rue Cléberg Lyon 69005 France +33 (0)4 7238 8190 http://www.lyon.fr/vdl/section... fourviere@rhone.fr |
An inscription that was discovered in 1958 and is now on display in the Museum of Gallo-Roman civilisation helped date the construction of this amphitheatre to 19 AD, under Tiberius. This amphitheatre was used for entertainment, but it was also the federal sanctuary of the Three Gauls in which each tribe was represented, thus ensuring loyalty of the Gallic people to the Emperor. The highest social standing a Gaul could reach was to become a federal priest of Rome and Augustus. The amphitheatre nestles on a hill and measures 128 x 104m. Coins displayed in the Museum of Gallo-Roman civilisation reproduce the holiness of the altar of Rome and Augustus which is overlooked by two statues of the Victory perched on columns. A post in the centre of the arena serves as a reminder that the martyrs of 177 were sacrificed in this amphitheatre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Anthony V. Teelucksingh |
 Photo: Anthony V. Teelucksingh |
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A contemporary monument |
Place Antonin Perrin Lyon 69007 France +33 4 7276 8585 http://www.halle-tony-garnier.... htg@halle-tony-garnier.com |
This hall was built between 1909 and 1914 as an outline for the larger city built by the architect (see Quartier des Etats Unis). It was inaugurated for the 1914 Universal Exhibition as a project for an "industrial city". Nowadays, this hall is used for concerts and exhibitions but not so long ago it was still Lyon's meat market. Up till 1974 it belonged to a slaughterhouse and in 1975 was classified as a historical monument. It was also used temporarily as an arsenal during the 1st World War. Tony Garnier was inspired by 19th century glass and steel architecture, and imagined a pure concrete structure covered by a huge steel frame and a glass roof to let in the light. Garnier was more of a theorist than an architect as his buildings included all the functions of a slaughterhouse. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Aurélien Selle |
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 In the international area |
70 Quai Charles-de-Gaulle Lyon 69006 France +33 4 7817 5050 http://www.hilton-lyon.com |
This hotel was awarded 4 stars and a palm by the Lyon Tourist Office. For several years the Cité Internationale has been a hotspot for economic, political and cultural gatherings, so it is only natural that a hotel with this prestigious name would be found here. The Hilton fits in perfectly, as its modern architecture compliments that of the other buildings of the area. Inside these buildings you can visit the Contemporary Art Museum, go and see the casino, or take advantage of the incredible acoustics inside the immense auditoriums of the UGC cinema. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Jim G |
 Historical museum of the town of Lyon |
1 Place du Petit-Collège Lyon 69005 France +33 4 7842 0361 gadagne@mairie-lyon.fr |
Musee Historique de Lyon is located in one of the most prestigious Renaissance buildings in old Lyon. Constructed at the start of the 16th century by the son of a spice seller, it was turned into the museum in 1921. The history of Lyon from the middle ages to the 19th century is presented through archaeological relics, sculptures, paintings, lithographs, cards and maps. Spread out over 3 floors, you won't be disappointed in this history lesson that brings the past alive. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: wcities |
 A treasure of Renaissance architecture designed in the 16th century |
8 Rue Juiverie Lyon 69005 France +33 4 7277 6969 |
This mansion is a treasure of Renaissance architecture designed in 1536 by Philibert Delorme (1510-1570) one of the greatest French architects of his time. In the first courtyard, admire the well decorated with a coat of arms before going into the second to see the famous gallery that Antoine Bullioud had made to connect two of his apartments. Philibert Delorme had to adapt his design to an architecture that already existed but as this was relatively simple he was able to show the gallery to its best advantage by adding decorations inspired by ancient temples. Opposite the gallery & up a spiral staircase is a terrace where you can admire the pillars that support the corner towers. Delorme plays with the chronological order of architecture by superposing Doric and Ionic motifs. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Roudou |
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General hospital founded in the 6th century |
1 Place de l'Hôpital Lyon 69002 France +33 4 7241 3042 |
According to the legend, King Childebert and his wife Ultrogothe founded this hospital in 542. Their statues were erected on the first floor of the façade as a reminder of their good work with the sick and needy. When Jacques Blanc rebuilt the hospital between 1622 and 1627, the King still wanted it to serve the poor but the number of patients had risen considerably. The building, located today between the quai du Rhône and the grande rue de l'Hôpital, isn't big enough to cover the needs of a growing population. The ingenious cross-shaped layout and the little dome with cut-off sections (the first in France) bear witness to his talent. In 1732,the hospital governors sent the King a plan to enlarge the buildings and make it a showpiece for the town. At that time, the left bank was relatively undeveloped and the future building must have impressed people coming in from the Dauphiné countryside. A young architect named Jacques-Germain Soufflot won the competition to redesign the hospital with his ambitious project to incorporate the existing buildings. Work on this neo-classical building with Ionic colonnades on the front and Doric pillars inside was started in 1741 and finished in 1837. It is now a majestic enclosure along the Rhône hiding its real purpose behind its walls. Inside, a chapel has been set up under the dome and its central position enables the patients to listen to the services from their beds. The Hôtel Dieu is now home Musée des hospices civils de Lyon). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Agustin Cacciola |
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Cinema was born in Lyon, and the Institut Lumière proves it! |
25 Rue du Premier-Film Lyon 69008 France +33 (0)4 7878 1895 http://www.institut-lumiere.org/ contact@institut-lumiere.org |
This museum and former home of famous inventors Louis and Auguste Lumière is dedicated to all things related to the the world of theatre and cinema. Exhibitions include a display of the brothers' inventions, and there is a theatre for documentaries, conferences or screenings and a library. Many events, festivals, conferences and meetings are organised throughout the year and, in the Summer, there are free open-air films in front of the castle. Admission to the Hangar du Premier-Film theatre is mostly free; check the Web site for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A majestic 17-18th century city hall restored by architect Mansart |
1 Place de la Comédie Lyon 69001 France +33 4 7210 3030 |
In the 17th century the councillors and council offices had offices in the hôtel de la Couronne but a decision was made rapidly to construct a more suitable building. So, between 1646 and 1672, S.Maupin was responsible for building a monument that reflected the ambitions of the city of Lyon: he imagined four buildings around an entrance courtyard (opposite today's Opéra house). In this courtyard a portico and a grand staircase lead to the "cour d'honneur". The building was barely finished in 1674 when it caught fire and further financing and extensive re-decoration were needed. All the pavilions and the belfry (containing 65 bells) resisted reasonably well until the restoration started in 1700 under the guidance of J.H.Mansart who also improved the outer decor. A magnificent hemicycle-shaped portico decorated with Gods of the sea and a Cyclops was added in the "cour d'honneur". Mansart completed his design with the ancient architecture he so admired. The decoration of the main rooms, such as "la grandeur consulaire de Lyon" painted by T.Blanchet in 1660, was a source of great pride for the city of Lyon and its councillors. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Pierre Numérique |
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A neo-classical opera house |
1 Place de la Comédie Lyon 69001 France +33 4 7200 4545 http://www.opera-lyon.com/ contact@opera-lyon.com |
If there is one opera house that bears witness to the theatrical past of its town, then it is the Opera House of Lyons. Architects J.M. Pollet and A.M. Chenavard chose to build their new opera house exactly where Soufflot built his theatre in 1756. This opera house was built between 1756 and 1832 to cater to the growing popularity of opera in Lyons at the end of the 18th century. The style is neo-classical, which was typical of the time, with a peristyle on the ground floor and decor you would expect in a Greco-Roman temple with its chimera and muses - eight out of nine celebrating the Arts! Following a competition set up by the Council of Lyons, the Opera House was renovated by the architect Jean Nouvel between 1985 and 1993. He succeeded to preserve the original structure and the four outer façades whilst giving it a modern face lift. Extra floors have been added in the basement and the upper part to increase the overall capacity of the building. It now accommodates a corps de ballet, an orchestra as well as many rehearsal rooms, storage areas for costumes and props. The main hall has been decorated using various black and red materials such as granite and wood and uses a soft lighting system which is particularly effective at nightfall when combined with the outside lights. There is a classic programme including Prokofiev, Puccini and Ravel. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Former Law Courts, neoclassical design |
Quai Romain-Rolland Lyon 69005 France |
The old Palais de Justice (the new one is located in the Part Dieu district) was built on the banks of the Saône by L.P. Baltard between 1835 and 1845, at a time when classical antiquity was in vogue for art and architecture. The façade that overlooks the Saone river is neo-classical and resembles a Greco-Roman temple with 24 fluted columns and Corinthian capitals, Attic entablature and a monumental staircase. The effect is striking. The palace is organised around "la salle des pas perdus" where the accused, lawyers and private parties would wait their turn to appear before the judge. This extraordinary room covered by three cupolas illustrates themes close to the heart of justice. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: wcities |
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Vast Royal square |
Place Bellecour (Lyon Center exit) Lyon 69002 France |
Place Bellecour is one of the few remaining Royal squares in France: the French Revolution took its toll here as elsewhere and the statue erected by Desjardins in 1691 was destroyed. A sculptor named Lemot built a new statue of Louis XIV in 1828. At the base of the pedestal 2 statues of the Coustou brothers symbolise the Rhône river (East) and the Saône river (West). This huge square measuring 310x200m has a surface of red sand and is as important to Lyon's heritage as the Basilique de Fourvière. Some say this square serves no purpose except as the starting point for various rallies and demonstrations but in fact it is a unique 18th century ensemble. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Large public square |
1-25 Place des Terreaux (Rue d'Algerie) Lyon 69001 France |
The word "terreaux" describes the old moats and medieval mud ("terre") walls that protected the town up to the end of the 16th century. These were filled in to make room for a large square where the town's guillotine was erected. It is the second most important square after Place Bellecour, as it is flanked by Palais Saint Pierre and the Hôtel de Ville (city hall). In 1892, the city council bought a statue from the famous sculptor Bartholdi (of Statue of Liberty fame) which Bordeaux had commissioned then refused. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Regional administrative building |
29 Cours de la Liberté Lyon 69003 France +33 4 7261 7777 |
This regional administrative building was constructed by A. Louvier (1879-90) along the lines of the Hôtel de Ville de Lyon and the Palais du Commerce. The building had to fulfil the administrative requirements of the Préfecture (regional administration centre) as well as look after its citizens. In some ways, it is a kind of institutional art ... and that is how the city of Lyons is represented on the central pediment, leaning against the Monts du Lyonnais. On the ground floor, four medal shaped panels depict the local economy and the three major rivers in the area (Rhône, Saône, Azergues). The inside layout is similar to the Palais du Commerce - the entrance gives on to an atrium whose impressive double spiralled staircase is worthy of some of the greatest theatres, such as that in Bordeaux or the Opéra Garnier in Paris. The painted décor depicts agriculture and local industries - the Gloires du Lyonnais et du Beaujolais by E. Fournier (1904) in the main hall will remind us of the paintings in the Hôtel de Ville de Lyon Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Romanesque abbey |
Place d'Ainay Lyon 69002 France +33 4 7240 0250 |
Like the église Saint Paul in old Lyons, the abbey of Saint Martin d'Ainay is proof of the Romanesque Lyons architecture often eclipsed by the Gothic. Dating at least from the Carolingian era, the present abbey, of which there remains nothing but the church, dates mostly from the 12th century. The buildings at the end of the Middle Ages reflected the wealth of the abbey but the Protestants judged this wealth incompatible with monastic vows, so they looted the abbey. The Revolution finished what they started. Today it remains a testimony to architectural history of the area and is a favorite of visitors. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Stephen Shimanek |
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A rare example of a Romanesque church in Lyons |
1 Place Gerson Lyon 69005 France +33 4 7828 3445 |
One of the oldest churches in Lyon (it appears in a 9th century text by Bishop Leidrade), the Romanesque architecture of Saint Paul matches the abbey church of Saint-Martin d'Ainay (cf. Saint Martin d'Ainay). In the 19th century the revival of interest in medieval art prompted several neo-Gothic additions (spire, west portal), but the church thankfully keeps its Romanesque coherence. The octagonal tower at the transept crossing and the chapels near to the apse have also kept their arched openings decorated with small columns. The west steeple dates from the 15th century. The nave and the lower sides of the church have a surprising Romano-Gothic look. For the most part, the Romanesque walls were replaced in order to make more space and allow more light in - notably with the addition of rib vaults (a characteristic of what is called Gothic architecture). In the church of Saint Paul the Romanesque walls were kept but spiced up with Gothic innovations - this is the particular architectural feature of the church. The dome situated at the transept crossing is remarkable because it consists of two superimposed octagons. Services are held at 6:30p M-F and 10a & 11:30a Su. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Sébastien DELORME |
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Cathedral |
Place St-Jean Lyon 69005 France +33 4 7842 2825 http://cathedrale-lyon.cef.fr/ cathedrale@cathedrale-lyon.cef.fr |
The church of Lyon's bishop, one of Gaul's most important, has been situated on the banks of the Saone at the bottom of Fourvière hill since the 4th century (Saint Jean Archeological Garden). Construction of the present building started in 1170-1180 and the chancel and façade were finished in the 14th century: the cathedral is a testament to the evolution of Lyon's religious architecture. This historical church is host to many events, concerts and religious lectures throughout the year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Duncan Laws |
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Passages in Old Lyon |
Rue St-Jean Lyon 69005 France |
As villages developed around the bottom of Fourvière hill in the 12th-13th centuries, another community grew up around Saint-Jean cathedral. The constructions here were practically all the same - a house overlooking the street and a house behind that overlooked inner courtyard, which were connected by loggias and spiral staircases. Passages were created to make it easier to get from the street to the house in the courtyard. There are quite a few of these passages, named "traboules", in the Vieux Lyon district, which give you access to the inner courtyards of Gothic and Renaissance houses. For some, an entry code is needed, but most home-owners let visitors walk around freely during the day. However, do remember that the "traboules" are private property, so respect them. Here are some ideas of "traboules" to try: Entrance (Exit) and vice-versa: 2, place du Gouvernement (10, quai R. Rolland); 3, place du Gouvernement (11, quai R. Rolland); 10, rue Saint Jean (2, place du Petit Collège); 9, rue des Trois Maries (17, quai R. Rolland); 13, rue des Trois Maries (18, quai R. Rolland); 24, rue Saint Jean (1, rue du Boeuf); 40, rue Saint Jean (5, place Neuve); 54, rue Saint Jean (27, rue du Boeuf). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Daniel Araya |
 105-hectare Park |
Boulevard des Belges Lyon 69006 France +33 4 7889 0203 http://www.parc-tete-dor.com/l... |
Legend has it that this park is named for the golden head of Christ that is hidden somewhere on site. Unbelievable? Well, so is this park that covers more than 105 hectares and has a zoo, a 5-hectare rose garden and enormous greenhouses filled with exotic species—not to mention a mysterious island! This park is considered to be the "lung" of Lyon and is so popular that sometimes during weekends, joggers, families with push chairs and cyclists have trouble finding enough space. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Guided tour in French and English |
6 Place Bellecour (Place Bellecour) Lyon 69002 France +33 4 7277 6969 (Lyon Tourism Office) http://www.vieux-lyon.com/ info@vieux-lyon.com |
UNESCO recently listed the old part of Lyons, Vieux Lyon, including the Croix-Rousse and Presqu'île areas as a world heritage site,this Gothic and Renaissance district, famous for its maze of narrow streets and elegant buildings certainly deserves it! The office du tourisme de Lyon organizes guided tours in English and French, which help you discover the complexity and beauty of cathédrale Saint Jean and the maze of streets and passageways, such as the famous traboules. Visits are also organised on Wednesdays and Thursdays (Please inquire at the Tourist Office). Meeting point at the Bureau des Guides (avenue Adolphe Max, métro Vieux Lyon). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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