img_logo_impression Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon)

Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon)

In 1964, Vieux Lyon became the first protected historic district in France. It is one of the largest Renaissance quarters in Europe and was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1998.

The Vieux Lyon quarter spreads across the Fourvière hillside and is organized around three religious monuments :
 

 Saint Jean cathedral, the oldest of the three, and which still has its medieval apse, is a fine example of the Gothic art tradition. Of special interest are the remarkable astronomic clock and the impressive central stained glass rose window. The chapel of the Bourbons was built later, in the 15th century. 

 the splendid medieval church of Saint Paul with its octagonal bell tower, its frescoes of musician angels dated 1480 and its excellent acoustics make it a charming venue for concerts.

 Saint Georges church, built in the 19th century by Bossan, the architect of Fourvière basilica. The surrounding homes date back to the Middle Ages and were extended and embellished in the 16th and 17th centuries.

During the Renaissance, Lyon gave young architects a chance to prove their worth. Philibert Delorme built a highly acclaimed and innovative gallery linking two buildings on Rue Juiverie.

By 1960, Vieux Lyon had fallen into a sad state of dilapidation. Many buildings were endangered by neglect and by urban development projects calling for their destruction or disfiguration. But thanks to the combined efforts of the State (André Malraux was Minister of Culture), a local association, "Renaissance du Vieux Lyon", and the City, Vieux Lyon became France's first "protected sector" in 1964.
Since then, two thirds of the buildings have been restored to their former glory, housing units have been improved, and social balance has been preserved in the neighborhood. This vast Renaissance district has magnificent edifices testifying to the architectural splendor of the era:
  Gadagne mansion, built in the 16th century, houses the Historical Museum of Lyon and the International Museum of Puppets, and is undergoing large-scale renovation.
  Loge du Change, built in 1630, modified by Soufflot in 1748, this building housed bankers and merchants.
  Chamarier house, named for the dignitary who collected taxes during trade fairs.
  Palais Saint-Jean, an Episcopal residence since the Middle Ages was transformed by Soufflot in 1750, then by Chenavard.
  Maison des Avocats (law offices), was the Auberge de la Croix d’Or in the 16th century, and has magnificent arched galleries.
Three luxury hotels have set up in historic building, alongside more modest establishments; a variety of restaurants and shops contribute to the day and nighttime atmosphere. The Vieux Lyon quarter covers 30 ha (74 acres), including 500 buildings, 3000 housing units and 7000 residents.