Castles, Palaces & Historic Buildings in Lyon

Accredited with World Heritage city status by UNESCO, Lyon is a city where you can expect to find an abundance of historic building. Topping the list, the most stunning landmark building is the Hôtel Dieu. Founded in 542, the Hôtel Dieu is located along the banks of the River Rhône, and is particularly attractive to view at nighttime when it is illuminated and reflected in the waters of the river.

Next, we move on to Lyon's Renaissance architecture, which the old city is famous for. All located in close proximity to each other (in Lyon's Renaissance quarter), La Tour Rose, Musée Historique de Lyon (the Musée Gadagne building) and Maison des Avocats, are among Lyon's finest example of flamboyantly romantic Renaissance architecture, and just down the road in Saint-Georges, you can visit the lovely Maison du Soleil; a 17th century building that was the inspiration for Laurent Mourguet's (creator of the Guignol) theatrical scenery.

Moving across the River Saône - on to Lyon's Presqu'île - Théâtre des Célestins, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Hôtel de Ville de Lyon and Opéra de Lyon are all magnificent building that can be visited by day, or by night to see the buildings illuminated by the special effects of Lyon's lighting experts.

And finally, for a whole area full of historic buildings, visit UNESCO World Heritage Croix-Rousse. Here you will find the unique buildings of the 19th century " Canut" silk workers and the maze of " traboule" passageways that link the buildings together.

Hôtel Dieu

1 Place de l'Hôpital

Stunning landmark of Lyon (especially at night!)...
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Tour Rose (La)

16 rue du Boeuf

Beautiful Renaissance House...
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Musée Historique de Lyon

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1 place du Petit-Collège

Renaissance architecture, local history and puppets...
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Maison du Soleil

2 rue Saint-Georges

17th Century House with a Large Oval Courtyard...
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Musée des Miniatures et décors de Cinéma, Maison des Avocats

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60 rue Saint-Jean

A miniature world in a grand historic building...
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Théâtre des Célestins

4 Rue Charles-Dullin

Italian-style Theatre...
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Musée des Beaux-Arts

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20 place des Terreaux

Fine arts on a grand scale...
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Hôtel de Ville de Lyon

1 Place de la Comédie

Lyon's grand city hall...
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Opéra de Lyon (visites)

1 Place de la Comédie

Guided Tours of the Opera House...
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Traboules de la Croix-Rousse

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9 Place Colbert

Passageways of the Croix-Rousse silk workers...
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