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 Gothic-Renaissance house near the cathedral |
37 Rue Saint-Jean Lyon 69005 France |
A chamarier was a canon responsible for security within the walls of a cathedral complex. The house which can still be seen rue Saint Jean was built between the late 15th and early 16th centuries against the North wall since one of the chamarier's" functions was to check who was entering and leaving via the different gates. The façade, restored in the 19th century, is an example of secular architecture at the end of the Middle Ages (windows separated by pinnacles although only one is still mullioned). There is an interesting spiral staircase in a small tower inside the inner courtyard. This eclectic house is decorated with scrolls and a shellshapes which mark the transition from late Gothic to Renaissance architecture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Laetitia PAYET |
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A luxury hotel in a Gothic & Renaissance building |
6 Rue du Boeuf Lyon 69005 France |
The hôtel de luxe de la Cour des Loges is made up of several adjacent Gothic and Renaissance houses on the rue du Boeuf dating from the 15th to the 17th century. Most Renaissance houses in Lyons have only one passage linking the buildings together. The Cour des Loges is exceptional in that it has galleries, supported by large pillars, on three sides of the courtyard. Restored at the end of the 80s, it is now covered by a new glass roof. If you can't afford to stay the night in this elegant residence, go to the bar where the remains of a Jeu de Paume game are displayed on the interior walls. The courtyard is represented in a trompe-l'oeil wall painting in the place Fousseret, not far from the hotel. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Absolutely charming |
6 Rue du Boeuf Lyon 69005 France +33 4 7842 7575 |
This prestigious hotel has been awarded 4 stars and a Palme by the Tourist Office. One of the best hotel around Lyons, it is known for its luxury and for the beauty of the edifice itself. Everything is here to make you comfortable—so comfortable that you will not want to leave. Choose from double rooms and guest apartments, with pay-per-view television, air conditioning and private bath. A short walk will bring you to the musée Gadagne, a superb 16th century building. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mahery |
 Photo: Kristina Tiedje |
 Puppets and dolls |
100 Rue St-Georges Lyon 69005 France +33 4 7277 7528 http://www.automates-ema.com |
With over 250 moving subjects and 20 tableaux, this museum will fascinate both the young and the old. A small, private museum created by an enthusiast who has been making his working dolls himself since 1946, he exhibits puppets of all kinds-paste to paper, pastic, porcelain as well as some unforgettable scenes-from Gargantua, circus scenes, sections of maps and well-known faces in less familiar settings. Admission is EUR6.10; discounts for children, groups and students is available. This place is also wheelchair accessible. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: 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 |
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An amazing edifice of byzantinian inspiration, heritage of a very ancient culture |
13 Quai de Tilsitt Lyon 69002 France +33 4 7837 1343 |
The Grande Synagogue was constructed on the site of an old salt granary given over to the Jewish consistory of Lyon in the 19th century. From 1863 to 1864, the architect attempted to take his inspiration from the Palestinian temples (in particular the temple of Salomon) whilst adapting it to occidental architecture of the time. The synagogue retains a certain sobriety whilst attracting the attention of visitors (a beautiful view from the quay that faces it). The temple itself is divided into three parts, one of the saint in the center and of the saint of saints in the east. The three naves are separated by two rows of twelve pillars representing the twelve tribes of Israel. The central dome pierced with lots of windows, is symbolic of the unity of God, source of light. The architecture of the temple is very symbolic but it also serves specific worship purposes: the men have services on the ground floor, whilst the women are on the first floor. The porticas have been fitted out with stairways that go to the first floor which is for the women only and the second floor, which is where the choir and the organ are. Balustrades close off the chancel on the ground floor as only the rabbi and the members of the consistory are allowed in there. In brief the synagogue of Lyon is a shocking edifice of Byzantine inspiration, and the heritage of a very ancient culture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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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17th century house with a large oval courtyard |
2 Rue Saint-Georges Lyon 69005 France |
This house was built in the 17th century and the Barou du Soleil family made their home here in the 18th century, hence the name given to the house (and the small sun sculpted into the façade). The entrance at 2, Rue St. Georges leads into one of the most beautiful courtyards in the St. Georges district worth visiting. Each floor overlooks a large oval courtyard covered by a glass rood (which was not there originally). The name Trinity refers back to the canons house of the Trinity which stood there in the 17th century. Two sheltered statuettes in the corners are dedicated to the Virgin and to Saint Peter. The place itself inspired Laurent Mourguet, the creator of Guignol, in his theatrical scenery. It is true that he lives just around the corner. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Natalie Waugh |
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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 |
 Photo: Roudou |
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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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A Renaissance house with exceptional staircase & entrance |
4 Rue Juiverie Lyon 69005 France +33 4 7277 6969 |
Knicknamed "Henry 4th's house" for the bust of him that can be seen in an alcove, this private mansion was built in the second half of the 16th century which makes it part of Lyon's Rennaissance heritage. Unfortunately, part of the building was destroyed in the 19th century. This mansion is not in quite the same area as the other Rennaissance houses in the old part of Lyon (vieux Lyon) but it is worth the detour (direction montée des carmes-déchaussées), just to see the astonishing staircase in the cour d'honneur and the monumental entrance with a series of arches on top of each other supported by columns. A little bit of renovation wouldn't do any harm. 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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Large 15th century inn used by merchants |
60 Rue Saint-Jean Lyon 69005 France +33 4 7200 2477 |
This house was formerly known as the Croix d'Or inn and was built in 1471 to cater for the merchants who came to Lyon for the four annual trade fairs. The hotel was big enough to accommodate a large number of traders from the provinces and had stables for horses as well as warehouses where goods could be stored. The most spectacular part of the house is the large 3-story gallery which was added in the 16th century, especially the semi-circular arches on the ground floor that are supported by huge pillars. Access is from rue Saint Jean. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Medievial church building of the 12th century |
Place St-Jean Lyon 69005 France |
Apart from the remains of the groupe épiscopal excavated during archaeological digs, the façade of the "manécanterie" (a singing school) represents one of the oldest parts of the medieval church buildings (to the right of the cathedral's façade). Built in the 12th century, probably on a site from the Carolingian era (see the semi circular arches on the far right), this edifice is an example of Norman architecture (see the twin arches supported by smaller columns with carved capitals). This is exceptional since most of the buildings in the old part of Lyons are from the Gothic or Renaissance periods. The various subjects taught in medieval schools (philosophy, grammar, astronomy) are represented in the alcoves under the twin arches. From the late 14th to early 15th century the cathedral choristers lived here. The mullioned windows were added to this Roman complex in the late 15th-early 16th century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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An exhibition of miniatures |
2 Rue Juiverie Lyon 69005 France +33 4 7200 2477 http://www.miniaturama.com |
The Palais de la Miniature is an astonishing little private museum tucked in on the corner of Rue Juiverie near to Gare St. Paul. It is of international standing and children will love the games and dolls houses, while adults will appreciate the reconstruction of the famous theatre and restaurant on site. Model makers will gasp in admiration at the skill and patient dexterity displayed here. In short, the Palais de la Miniature will be enjoyed by everyone! Admission is EUR3.80; concessions are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Selene Verri  |
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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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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 |
 Garden on the Fourvière slopes |
Montée Saint-Barthélémy Esplanade de Fourvière Lyon 69005 France +33 4 7825 8619 http://www.fourviere.org/ |
The most practical and least tiring way of getting to the basilique de Fourvière is to take the tram, known locally as the ficelle from Saint Jean to near the Esplanade. There is also a rather long but more interesting way to discover the hill. Walk up rue de la Bombarde to the Montée des Chazeaux and go into the relatively unknown "Jardin du Rosaire" garden which leads to the Esplanade de Fourvière. Of course, to get the best of both worlds, you can take the ficelle up the hill and walk down through the gardens. The path that crosses the garden and leads to the Montée Saint Barthélémy at the basilica winds around the Stations of the Cross used by pilgrims. The best time of the day to walk up there is early morning or at the end of the day when wildlife is active: squirrels and buzzards are seen frequently here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: tomwischmann |
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Neo-Gothic church rebuilt in 1844 |
53 Rue St-Georges Lyon 69005 France |
Saint Georges catches the eye of passers-by on the quays of the Saône with its entirely neogothic harmony. The church was completely reconstructed in 1844 by the architect Pierre Bossan, who is famous for his eclecticism at Fourvière. The area of worship is however very old; a text by bishop Leidrade mentions that it was restored in the 9th century. Bossan took his inspiration from the gothic architecture of the end of the middle ages, judging by the classical stone tracery work, which runs all the way around the church. The nave is furnished with paintings and furniture from the 19th century in keeping with the uniformity of the church. Saint Georges is considered to be one of the more traditionalist churches of Lyons. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Carl Hubbers |
 Photo: Carl Hubbers |
 Photo: Jacques Meunier |
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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 |
 Photo: Sébastien DELORME |
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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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Cathedral |
Place St-Jean Lyon 69005 France +33 4 7842 2825 http://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 |
 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 |
 Photo: Daniel Araya |
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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 most beautiful Renaissance houses in Lyons |
16 Rue du Boeuf Lyon 69005 France |
La Tour, a well-known bar-restaurant, takes its name from the small tower, which houses a spiral staircase in the inner courtyard of this admirable 16th century Renaissance residence. Dating from the late 16th century-beginning of the 17th, the entrance portal was inspired by Serlio, a famous architect from Bologna. The carved pediment supported by columns is rather exceptional. The inner courtyard was re-built in the 17th century but the original layout is still recognisable with its Renaissance style shell-shaped waterwell in one of the corners, a recurring feature in many mansions of that period (see Hôtel Bullioud). The whole building has been preserved with charm and style (with the help of the restaurant). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Maria Di Siena |
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Big River |
Quai Funcheron (A7) Lyon France |
There is a statue in place Bellecour that represents the Saône river as a sensual, well-rounded woman. Don't let this fool you as the Saône is certainly more forceful than its neighbour the Rhône when the elements get going. If you go to the Museum of Gallo-Roman civilisation, you will see how long it took for the river to establish its course. These days the banks of the Saône are more attractive and stroller-friendly than those of the Rhône. A craft market is held every Sunday morning on the left bank from quai Fulchiron to quai Romain Rolland. On the right bank, second-hand book sellers gather every weekend (if the weather is fine) at quai de la Pêcherie and quai St Antoine. One of Lyon's biggest outdoor markets stretches from beyond the book sellers up to pont Bonaparte. For those who prefer walking and swimming to bargain hunting, we recommend you go northwards up the Saône towards Ile Barbe. There are several riverside restaurants (known as "guingettes") where you can sample fried fish and frogs' legs. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Steve White |
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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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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 |