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 Island Monastery |
11 Rue Bourgelat Lyon 69002 France |
This basilica was constructed at the end of the 11th century and consecrated in 1107 by Pope Pascal II. At that time, the building sat on an island covered by sand and greenery between the Rhône et Saône rivers; Presqu'ile is now a densely populated district of Lyon offering plenty of shopping and dining. The monastery is noteworthy particularly for its double colonnade, which is reminiscent of early Christian architecture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 15th century private mansion |
13 Rue de la Poulaillerie Lyon 69002 France +33 4 7837 6598 http://www.bm-lyon.fr/musee/im... |
This private mansion was built at the end of the 15th century and bought by the town of Lyon early in the 17th century to store council archives and as a venue for council meetings. Like most of the mansions in this neighbourhood which were built at the end of the Middle Ages, the floors are connected by a series of loggias that open onto a central courtyard. The building has been perfectly restored and now houses the Musée de l'Imprimerie. Visitors can walk into the courtyard without charge to admire the remarkable mullioned windows in the loggias and the stele commemorating the first town meeting that took place in this mansion in 1604. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Italian-style theatre |
4 Rue Charles-Dullin Lyon 69002 France +33 4 7277 4000 |
In prestigious surroundings, the Célestins offers an unbelievable and magical decor as well as an exceptional programme. Built by the architect G. André between 1872 and 1877, this theatre is considered to be one of the most representative of Italian-style theatres (the main hall houses the stage and tiers). The original structure, dating back to 1789-1792 had to be rebuilt after a fire in 1871, which destroyed the main hall. Another fire, three years later, put André's skills to test again. The neoclassical façade presents many antique style columns and semi-circular bay windows made from different coloured materials. Inside the main hall, the ceiling painted by J. Domer in 1881 and called "la comédie d'Aristophane," depicting the famous Greek poet surrounded by Athena and musical allegories, has been preserved. In 1991, Lyons city council started some major restoration projects that included the place de la Bourse, the Place des Terreaux and this theatre. From the place des Célestins, there is an unobstructed view of the theatre's façade and also see from the underground car park through a periscope! The carpark, designed by the architect M. Targe and the artist D. Buren is not without reminding the Traboules de la Croix-Rousse. Admission: The Office du tourisme de Lyon organises guided tours of the theatre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Frans & Roelien  |
 Photo: Gina Compitello |
 Photo: @lex itani |
 Photo: Avinash Meetoo |
 Photo: Franck Peyaud |
 Photo: Eric Calvayrac |
 Photo: Thomas Debray |
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Church at the Heart of Lyon |
Place des Cordeliers Lyon 69002 France http://saintbonaventure-lyon.c... |
Since the Middle Ages, the story of l'Eglise Saint-Bonaventure has been intimately linked to the story of Lyon itself. Saint Bonaventure was buried in this church in 1274, half a century after the arrival of Franciscan monks in the region. The church has been destroyed by violence several times in its history, and rebuilt and renovated each time to become a sanctuary today, a place where believers might come on pilgrimage. The magnificent organ is played, free to the public, on the first Sunday of each month for one hour, beginning at 6 p.m. Mass is offered both on Saturdays (4 p.m., 7:15 p.m.) and Sundays (10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 7 p.m.) every week. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 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 |
 Photo: wcities |
 Historical museum of the town of Lyon |
1 Place du Petit-Collège Lyon 69005 France +33 4 7842 0361 |
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 |
 Photo: wcities |
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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 |
 Photo: Agustin Cacciola |
 Photo: Daniel Araya |
 Photo: Alexis Hutcheson |
 Photo: Oliver Waine |
 Photo: Carmelo Speltino |
 Photo: hervé blachère |
 Photo: Guillaume Lavaure |
 Photo: paysages |
 Photo: Sabaudia69 |
 Photo: Amphone Bounphane |
 Photo: Andra Vargas |
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An elegant example of Renaissance architecture |
24 Rue Saint-Jean Lyon 69005 France +33 4 7837 9737 |
Like the Thomassin family (see Maison Thomassin), the Laurencin's made their fortune at Lyon's trade fairs and were able to purchase this palatial mansion at the end of the 16th century. The central courtyard is undoubtedly the most impressive part: the octagonal tower with large mullioned windows contains a spiral staircase that leads to the different loggias or galleries which link the houses overlooking the courtyard with those overlooking the street (see Traboules Saint Jean). The elegance of the buildings and its excellent stonework make it one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Lyon. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Here comes Guignol! |
1 Place du Petit-Collège Lyon 69005 France +33 4 7842 0361 |
Located within the Gadagne museum, this museum's exhibit is all about France's best-known puppet - Guignol, created in Lyon in 1908 by the silk worker Laurent Mourguet. Mourguet was the inspiration behind Lyon's satirical street theatre, thanks to his three creations - Guignol, Madelon and Gnafron, who poked fun at the forces of law and order and the king. The museum depicts the evolution of Guignol and Company, both through their performances and the ways in which they were made. Additional puppets from around the world are also on display. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Artistic Exhibition Room |
Place Bellecour Lyon 69002 France |
One of the best known exhibit spaces in Lyon, Le Rectangle is situated on the Place Bellecour, in the heart of the city. Nationally or internationally renowned exhibits of paintings and sculpture are hosted here. 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 |
 Photo: Pierre Numérique |
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 Photo: orangetokyo |
 Photo: Damien Bargiacchi |
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Evolution of the hospital |
1 Place de l'Hôpital Escalier F Lyon 69002 France +33 4 7241 3042 |
This museum traces hospital life in Lyon. Located in the Hotel-Dieu that was built in the 17th century, this museum focuses on the evolution of Lyonnaise medicine as well as allows you to follow the progress of medicine in general. Surgical instruments, pincers, scalpels and bistouries, as well as certain objects that are more or less unexpected are all on display, including doctor uniforms at the time of the plague, combined together tell the story of the advances, successes, heroism and disappointments in medicine over the years. Admission is EUR1.50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Furniture and trinkets |
34 Rue de la Charité Lyon 69002 France +33 4 7838 4200 |
To enter this museum you first have to go through the Musée des Tissus (Fabric Museum). The museum itself is a two-storey collection of furniture, tapestries, china and earthenware. There are rooms reconstructed in XVIIIc style, magnificent clocks, Aubusson and Gobelins tapestries, XV and XVI century Italian majolica, earthenware from the XV to the XVII centuries as well as a beautiful harpsichord made by Donzelague in 1716 which is still used for concerts. The museum is renowned for its eclectic aspect and rather jumbled displays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The second museum of France |
20 Place des Terreaux Lyon 69001 France +33 4 7210 1740 |
Since 1803, this museum has housed premier collections and exhibition. Today it boasts of more than 700 paintings, 300 sculptures and thousands of objets d'art, including antiquities, coins and medals. The ground floor houses the refectory and chapel (formerly the church of St Pierre), containing 19th- and 20th-century sculptures. The first floor includes Egyptian, Greek and Roman (before 200BC) antiquities; the second floor is dedicated to paintings from the 15th-20th centuries. Two book and gift shops and a refreshment area are on site. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Emily Bradford |
 Photo: Fabian Ong |
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Books and banknotes |
13 Rue de la Poulaillerie Lyon 69002 France +33 4 7837 6598 http://www.bm-lyon.fr/musee/im... |
This museum was founded in 1964 and is located in the Hotel de la Couronne, a Renaissance dwelling that was home to the town hall until the 17th century. The museum is split into two museums of unequal sizes - Musée de l'Imprimerie (Museum of Printing) and the Musée de la Banque (Museum of the Bank). The Museum of printing traces the history of printing and graphic arts, focusing on origins of the craft through papyrus, early printed books (1455-1500), newspapers, illustrations and more. The museum of the bank tells the history of the Lyonnaise bank of the 16th century, a time when Lyon ruled as the the commercial and banking capital. Admission is EUR3.80. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: dannyman |
 Photo: -Kj. |
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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/ |
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 |
 Photo: JaHoVil |
 Photo: Patrick GUYENNON |
 Photo: nick_g |
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Cruise on the Rhône |
Passerelle du Palais de Justice Lyon 69002 France +33 4 78 42 96 81 http://www.naviginter.fr/intro... |
At the heart of Presqu'ile, Navig'Inter offers a leisurely tour on the Rhône and the Saône to discover 2000 years of the history of Lyon and the variety of its surroundings, day and night. It's magic! Several options are available, from a simple guided tour to a dining cruise. Guests can also inquire about renting the Ville de Lyon barge. 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 |
 Photo: wcities |
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Grandiose neoclassical stock exhange |
Place de la Bourse Lyon 69002 France |
This is a stock exchange built by R. Dardel between 1855 and 1862. The main room is a glass-roofed, atrium-style hall with ancient galleries facing the exterior and the sculpted decor is sumptuous. Place de la Bourse on the northern side of the building was recently converted into a pretty little garden by A. Chemetoff. Try to see the sculptures by G. Bonnet on this façade or if you prefer neoclassical architecture, go to the south façade. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Z Mallavia |
 Photo: Michael Crawford |
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Beautiful public square |
1-22 Place Antonin Poncet (Quai de docteur Gailleton) Lyon 69002 France +33 4 7240 2540 |
Place A. Poncet is tucked between place Bellecour and the banks of the Rhône. It is a relatively recent addition to Lyon's urban squares as it was laid out in 1934 when the Hopital de la Charité was demolished to make way for the Post Office building (Hôtel des Postes). This square has plenty of greenery, benches and fountains that could make its neighbour, place Bellecour, jealous. The tower that stands opposite the Post Office is a monument to the hospital for the needy, built in 1665-66 and a good example of civil Renaissance architecture with Doric and Ionic columns. The Hotel des Postes was built from 1935 to 1938 by M. Roux-Spitz and typifies the massive, solid architecture of the 30s. Its long façade is partly inspired by the Hôtel Dieu with long vertical windows, but is much more austere. If you happen to need something inside this Post Office, have a look at the fresco by L. Bouquet (1937) that illustrates the "fluide messager", which was how Ampère described electricity. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Philippe Buffard |
 Photo: Carlo Alberto Licciardi |
 Photo: Frederic Aguiard |
 Photo: Colin Smith |
 Photo: Françoise Chambefort |
 Photo: jeremie.noiret |
 Photo: Mathieu Malaterre |
 Photo: Alain Houde |
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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 |
 Photo: olivier CASTETS |
 Photo: Camille Vilain |
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A public square with a large fountain |
Lyon 69002 France |
This square is named after the Dominican convent that stood on the Presqu'ile in the 13th century, until it was destroyed during the Revolution. The end of the 18th century was not a good time to be a monk or a lay preacher. The city council commissioned the architect G. André to build a monument on the Place des Jacobins, to commemorate Lyons's artistic genius. 1n 1866, the sculptor C Delaplanche designed a large fountain called "Lyon à ceux qui l'ont illustré" (Lyons to its illustrators). Four sculpted figures represent four artists from four different periods and four different art forms: the 16th century architect Phillibert Delorme famous for his hôtel Bulliod), the 19th century painter Hippolyte Flandrin, the 18th century sculptor Guillaume Coustou and the 17th century engraver Gérard Audran. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: bruno Mougin |
 Photo: Katie Stull |
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 Photo: Clément |
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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 |
 Photo: eleonor |
 Photo: Jen Penkethman |
 Photo: Javier rIL (www.ril.es) |
 Photo: Laurent-Walter Goix |
 Photo: Francine Clouden |
 Photo: Tim Papenfuss |
 Photo: Fabienne Chemin |
 Photo: Laurent Battesti |
 Photo: J. Attiogbe |
 Photo: Fotis Karagiannis |
 Photo: Emily Shirley |
 Photo: Anaël Pichon |
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Association for new residents |
5 Place de la Baleine Lyon 69005 France +33 4 7842 5003 http://perso.wanadoo.fr/lyonav... |
Rhône Accueil is an organisation run by volunteers, which ,as its name implies, welcomes people who have just arrived in Lyon of its surrounding area. It is not easy to get to know the town, when you live here for the first time. This association is here to help you feel your feet, and to offer advice if you are planning to move. It is not strictly speaking a tourist office, even if you can find information here on the heritage of Lyon. The association aims to make people aware of the range of services available -administrative, social, accommodation and, of course, leisure. In short, a kind of local wcities which through its knowledge of the town and its facilities will roll out the red carpet for you. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Old convent |
20 Place des Terreaux Lyon 69001 France |
In 1802, the Museum of Fine Arts was installed in one of the oldest convents in Lyon. According to Medieval texts, women's monasteries were found as early as the end of the 7th century. This particular monastery became very influential and was able to purchase land throughout the region. Today's Dames de Saint Pierre was built in the second half of the 17th century but excavation in Saint Pierre chapel (where these relics can be seen) brought to light remains from the 12th century. In the 10-11th centuries, this Benedictine abbey took in mainly well-born women some of whom became renowned abbesses. Anne and Antoinette d'Ailly de Chaulnes were responsible for the 17th century reconstruction. The relatively plain facade has borrowed elements from classical architecture. The old cloister at the entrance to the museum can be visited when the museum is open and in the recently restored cloister garden you can see sculptures by Rodin (L'Ombre), Carpeaux and Bourdelle. In the summer, this is a good place to escape from the city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Etienne Dessaut |
 Photo: IVOBO |
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Neo-classical 19th century church |
11 Rue Auguste Comte Lyon 69002 France |
Wedged between the rue des Antiquaires and the rue Sala, the church of Saint François de Sales is dedicated to the founder of the order of the visitation. As with the churches of Saint Pothin and Saint Polycarpe, the architects J. Dulin and C.Benoit took their inspiration from classical architecture giving the church an impressive façade, full of images of the past. The church was built entirely in the 19th century, which explains the relative homogeneity of its decoration - part classical and part baroque (cf. similar to the dome at Saint Bruno des Chartreux). The interior reflects the exterior with murals (frescos by A. Denuelle) and relatively sombre furniture, but is also inspired by the Italian baroque of the 18th century. In brief, it's a little Italy of the 19th century transported to the second arrondissement. Services are held at 8:30a M-F, 6p Sa and 9:30a & 11a Su. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Thomas Pollin |
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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 |
 Photo: Stephen Shimanek |
 Photo: Marie Noëlle Taine |
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Men's sauna |
4 Rue Simon-Maupin Lyon 69002 France +33 4 7838 1927 |
Welcome to the warmth of the Le Bellcour sauna. Exclusively reserved for men, this establishment welcomes you with the greatest consideration, so that you can benefit from this space dedicated relaxation. Open daily, this sauna simply offers hot steam water cures. In short, it's an ideal place to recharge one's batteries. A session here will cost just 85F (EUR 12.95). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The silk of Lyon |
34 Rue de la Charité Lyon 69002 France +33 4 7838 4200 |
Lyon was the capital of silk, so it follows that it should pay homage to the fabrics of the world. Located in the 16th-century Hotel de Villeroy, this museum traces 4,000 years of the history of fabric and textile. Exhibitions include a large variety of material and techniques from Asia, the Orient and Europe. Spread out over three floors, tour the history of fabrics in the form of clothing, robes, prayer books, Italian lace and more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: C. Morse-Fortier |
 Photo: GaxPix |
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A quiet drink whilst admiring the Rhône |
20 Quai du docteur-Gailleton Lyon 69002 France +33 4 7241 2020 |
The view from the panoramic bar at the Hôtel Sofitel may not be as breathtaking as the one from the Crédit Lyonnais tower or the basilique de Fourvière, just as the tour métallique cannot compare to the Eiffel tower. But if you want a quiet drink in a well-known, comfortable bar and enjoy the view of Lyons by night, this is the place to go! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Spa Care & Cosmetics |
49 rue Auguste Comte Lyon 69002 France +33 4 78 42 07 07 http://www.cinqmondes.com |
The founder of Spa Cinq Mondes, Jean-Louis Poiroux, spent over a decade traveling the world to discover the best methods of care and massage on the planet. The Spa Cinq Mondes now offers a range of authentic treatments based on cultural traditions. A line of cosmetic products with no silicone, artificial coloring, or testing on animals allows patrons to bring the spa experience home. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Archaeological site with the remains of early Christian churches |
Rue Mandelot Lyon 69005 France |
During the early-Christian era and the beginnings of the Western church, the word "ecclesia", the bishop's church, was used instead of cathedral. Archaeological excavations between 1973 and 1977 brought to light Lyon's Episcopalian church complex in this area. Three churches and a surrounding wall were built in the 4th century: Sainte-Croix church where catechumen or novices (unbaptised followers) were taught, St Etienne baptistry where the faithful were baptised and the "ecclesia" where the Bishop welcomed the baptised. In Carolingian times, baptisms took place in the main church where baptismal fonts were used instead of the tanks in the baptistry. The history and evolution of this garden can be seen in the restored relics such as the foundations of Sainte-Croix and Saint Etienne, the baptismal tank where the faithful were immersed and part of the surrounding wall built in the 6th century with the remains of Roman monuments (some still bear inscriptions). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Organic Frog |
 Photo: Kenneth Tam |
 Photo: roussel |
 Photo: Morten J. Ervik |
 Photo: seemay |
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Gothic church of St. Nizier |
Place St-Nizier Lyon 69001 France +33 4 7241 1805 |
The church of Saint Nizier is one of the oldest in Lyon - writers of the Middle Ages described it as the funeral basilica where the ashes of the first Lyonnaise martyrs in 177 were kept. According to the famous 6th century writer Grégoire de Tours it was the tomb of his uncle Saint Nizier, the namesake of the church. What is certain is that the edifice founded under bishop Leidrade, close to Charlemagne, has diasappeared because it was replaced by the present construction in the 15th century. Saint Nizier is in reality a clever mixture of Gothic, Baroque and Neogothic architecture! The oldest parts like the majority of the façade and the interior area are in a Gothic style: the north steeple was constructed using the ideas of old Roman monuments, the nave is a perfect example of Gothic flamboyance (see Triforium and ribs of the vault). The columned apse of the entrance porch, added in 1579 by J. Vallet, adds a little touch of Renaissance. But overall it is the revival of interest in the Middle Ages that has been the inspiration for many modifications: A. Benoit constructed the south steeple using the design of the north steeple, but making it a little more geometric (1855-56) and the interior fittings were completely modified (furnishings, stain glass windows, organ, paintings, and statues). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Antoine Rambaud |
 Photo: manufrakass |
 Photo: Cédric |
 Photo: Cyrille Frey |
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City Church of Lyon |
10 rue Lanterne Lyon 69001 France |
The façade of the Temple Lanterne lies flat, joined with the fronts of buildings to either side and pierced at the entrance by three pointed archways. The building was constructed on the blueprints of architect Manlius Bailly in 1857, and the organ by Joseph Merklin in 1891. Concerts are performed periodically, and mass begins at 10:15 a.m. every Sunday. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Architecture & Culture |
Place du Change 2 rue Soufflot Lyon 69005 France |
This Protestant church is located in the historical Old Lyon in the sixteenth century merchant hall and has regular services as well as other special events. Visit the website for more information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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One of the oldest mansions of its type in Lyon |
2 Place du Change Lyon 69005 France |
As early as the Middle Ages, Lyon was recognised as a major commercial hub between Flanders and Italy. The town became a centre for cloth craftsmanship and, as of the 15th century, three or four important trade fairs were held at the "place du change". Several families made their fortunes from these fairs and one of them, the Thomassins, had a private mansion built on the "Place du change". This mansion is one of the oldest of its type in Lyon (14th century) but what you see now is a 15th century reconstruction which has been restored. The façade is interesting especially for its delicate sculptures and the arches on the 2nd floor. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Laetitia PAYET |
 Photo: Laetitia PAYET |
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Study and meditation centre |
5 Rue des Marronniers Lyon 69002 France +33 4 7842 8159 |
Situated behind the place Bellecour, the Buddhist centre follows the methods of the Karma Ling institute, founded in 1980 by the Tibetan grand master Kalou Rimpotché. The centre is not a temple in the proper sense, but it does offer regular sessions of silent meditation as well as initiation into the Dharma and Buddha's teachings. The centre is linked to the Karma Ling institute situated not far from Chambéry, which allows everyone to progress in the ways of Buddha according to their own level of achievement. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A structure for complete local knowledge |
Place Bellecour Lyon 69002 France +33 4 7277 6969 http://www.lyon-france.com |
Situated in the place Bellecour, the Lyon tourist office in all respect meets the expectations of French and foreign visitors. As in all the tourist offices, you can of course take away all the information you need on museums, places to stay, leisure activities, but it is also possible to get a plan of the town (very useful for strolling about without worrying) and to book one of the numerous guided tours organised. The office at Bellecour also has a railways stand and a souvenir shop. Furthermore, the information posts situated outside enable you to consult day and night an interactive cd rom which reveals the charms of this superb town. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Temples of knowledge |
15-18 Quai Claude Bernard Lyon 69007 France |
At the end of the XIX century (1876-1898), Abraham Hirsch designed and supervised the construction on the left bank of the Rhône of the two buildings which were to house the faculties of pharmacy and medicine. The sober, neoclassical style and the layout of the buildings are reminiscent of the prestigious Hôtel Dieu which Soufflot developed not far away on the right bank! Each of these buildings has a façade suited to the flow of the river as well as a central dome shaped building ! Well, does that remind you of anything? These two buildings nowadays form part of the universities of Lyons2 and Lyons3. A sad incident recently destroyed the major part of these two buildings (16-18 quai C. Bernard): on the 13th of June 1999, a fire destroyed the dome and the floors of the central building which housed the university library! A considerable loss since only part of the original stock was saved. Over 200000 works from the XIX-XX century were lost forever. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nick Veitch |
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House dating from end of Middle Ages |
29 Rue Saint-Jean Lyon 69005 France |
The Viste family gained their wealth, like so many other families during the rise of Lyon as one of the great trading capitals of the kingdom from the end of the XIV century. In the XV century they had a house built nowadays nicknamed the "house of the pine cones" due to its sculpted design (small stone pine cones along a string course). If you have had the opportunity to visit the National Medieval Museum in Paris, you will no doubt have admired the famous Dame à la Licorne, one of the jewels of the Middle Ages. This tapestry was made at the request of Jean la Viste at the end of the XV Century. This masterpiece illustrates well the power of the Viste family whose crest can be recognized on various parts of the tapestry. Review © 2007, Wcities |