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Notable Architecture

Top Rated Attractions in Lyon

Search Radius (Miles)
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Built between 1872 and 1884 by the architect Pierre Bossan, the Basilique de Fourvière, that has been nicknamed the "upside-down elephant" is representative of the eclecticism of the end of the 19th Century. The oriental, symbolic and neo-classical influences (twisted columns and columned porticoes) are mixed with architecture inspired by the medieval style towers, which creates a shocking fortress church. An observatory offers spectacular views, and under the basilica is a crypt, accessible from the esplanade. Guided tours are available.

Vieux Lyon

UNESCO recently listed the old part of Lyon, 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 culturally rich district is famous for its quaint cathedrals, churches, and building of historic importance. The office du Tourisme de Lyon organizes guided tours in English and French, which help you discover the best of Old Lyon.

Place des Terreaux

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.

Place Bellecour

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 symbolize 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.

Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Lyon

This magnificent cathedral was founded in the 11th-Century by Saint Pothinus and Saint Irenaeus, who happened to be the first two bishops of Lyon. However, the construction of the cathedral did not get underway until 1180 and was not completed until 1480. Of particular interest to visitors are the two crosses hung on either side of the altar; these relics were placed on the walls in 1274 to symbolize the union of the churches. Also of note is the Bourbon chapel, which is considered to be a masterpiece of 15th-Century architecture. Visitors can also admire the cathedral's grand astronomical clock, which dates back to the 14th-Century.

Ancient Theatre of Fourvière

Located close to the Fourvière Hill of Lyon is the Roman Theaters of Fourviere; a theater that is believed to have existed at this location since the 17th Century. Albeit an ancient sight, Roman Theaters of Fourviere is still used for many concerts and the science behind its seating arrangement and acoustics always makes visitors fall in awe of this beauty. Even when there aren't events lined up, when in Lyon, a visit to this place comes highly recommended. One can stroll up and down the complex while soaking in the serene atmosphere that surrounds these ruins.

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