Place des Terreaux – Lyon : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
- By
- Aparna Patel
- |
- 5 Jul, 2023
- |
Lyon, the capital of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region located in southeastern France, is known for its culinary delights, culture and rich history. It also boasts one of the oldest public squares in the city, Place des Terreaux. This beautiful plaza, in the heart of the city, is not only an architectural masterpiece but also has some hidden gems. This blog will provide an overview of the Place des Terreaux including interesting facts and information, and provide a unique travel guide of the area. So, let’s explore this amazing place to find out what it has to offer!
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About Place des Terreaux – Lyon
1. Place des Terreaux is an iconic square that has been witness to centuries of history in the city of Lyon.
2. The square is located in the heart of old Lyon and is the site of many important political meetings and events.
3. It is thought to have been first constructed in the 16th century, when it was known as the Place des Ècueils or ‘place of dangers’.
4. The intricate ‘Fountain of the Four Rivers’, carved from a single block of Pavonazetto marble, was designed by Lyon architect Jean-Baptiste Franque in 1744 and stands as one of the main focal points of the square today.
5. The Guardian Lion statues located at each corner of the square were added in 1864 to reinforce the architecture and make the square safer.
6. Elysee Palace owner, Jean-Jacques Rousseau is said to have lived in the square while in Lyon.
7.The square also hosts the second biggest Christmas market in France.
8. As part of its revitalisation plan the square was fitted with LED lighting in 2018 which changes colour every hour from 7pm.
History & Information About Place des Terreaux – Lyon
Place des Terreaux is a large public square located in the heart of Lyon, France. It has been a public meeting place for centuries with its current name being derived from the Franciscan convent that neighbored it in the 16th century and meaning “Field of the Monks”. The square is a popular destination in the city and is lined with landscaped gardens, groves of trees, and meadows. The centerpiece of the square is the Fountain of the Place des Terreaux which was designed by Barthélémy Prieur in 1671. The fountain is topped by a bronze statue of a woman representing the river Rhône and eight drinking lions.
The square has also been used for celebrations, festivals, political rallies, and military parades throughout its history. During the French Revolution, it served as the backdrop for the annual Festival of Unity that was organized by the popular city of Lyon. It was also at the center of resistance to Nazi occupation forces during the Second World War and served as a kind of living memorial to the area’s resistance and freedom. After the war, the square was the venue for a variety of grand celebrations including a major firework display in 1962.
Today, Place des Terreaux continues to be a popular destination in the city. The Fountain of the Place des Terreaux remains a highlight of the square, while the surrounding gardens and groves of trees are perfect for a peaceful stroll. The Place des Terreaux is also home to a variety of monuments including a memorial to sailors who were killed during World War I and two stone figures representing the goddess Cybele. A variety of events are also held in the square and it is open to the public.
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Travel Guide For Visiting Place des Terreaux – Lyon
, France
1. Introduction
Place des Terreaux is one of Lyon’s most vibrant public squares. Located in the center of the city, this square is the site of several notable monuments, including the bronze statue of Louis XIV, opera house, and fountain. It is also a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike, offering plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops. This guide will help you explore the beauty of this historic square and all the attractions it has to offer.
2. Getting to Place des Terreaux
There are several ways to reach Place des Terreaux. The most convenient route is by taking the metro. It is a short two-stop ride from Part-Dieu station to Bellecourt station. Once you exit the station, you will be a short distance away from the square. You can also take a taxi or bus to reach the square in a short amount of time.
3. What to See and Do
When visiting Place des Terreaux, there is plenty to see and do. A must-see attraction is the iconic Louis XIV bronze statue, which is located in the center of the square. You can also visit the Lyon Opera House and explore the nearby shops and cafes. Additionally, the square boasts stunning views of the Rhone River and the mountains beyond. It is also a great place to people-watch and admire the beautiful architecture of the surrounding buildings.
4. Where to Eat and Drink
Place des Terreaux is surrounded by several fantastic restaurants and cafes. There is a variety of cuisines to choose from, ranging from French cuisine to Italian and Asian specialties. If you’re looking for a place to grab a snack, there are plenty of options, including bakeries, creperies, and fast-food spots. For a more upscale dining experience, there are several fine-dining restaurants located in and around the square.
5. Shopping
Place des Terreaux is also a great spot for some retail therapy. You can find a wide selection of unique boutiques and stores, selling everything from souvenirs to local products. You may even find antique stores that sell antiques from around the world.
6. Conclusion
Place des Terreaux is a great place to visit while in Lyon, France. It is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. The square is full of interesting monuments and attractions, as well as plenty of dining and shopping options. Hopefully, this guide has given you a better understanding of the attractions and activities available in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Place des Terreaux – Lyon
Q: What is Place des Terreaux?
A: Place des Terreaux is a historical square in the heart of Lyon, France. It is located in Presqu’ile de Lyon and is one of the city’s main attractions. It is surrounded by many notable buildings, including the City Hall, Museum of Fine Arts, and Opera House.
Q: What is the history of Place des Terreaux?
A: Place des Terreaux was built in 1629 and was used as an open market place. In 1784 it received its current name, which references its use as a public square for the exchange of goods or money. The square was modernized in 1826 to its current neoclassical design, with an equestrian statue of Henri IV placed at its center.
Q: What can I do at Place des Terreaux?
A: Place des Terreaux has a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. People can take part in a tour of the City Hall and Opera House, admire the many public fountains, view the equestrian statue of Henri IV, or visit the nearby Museum of Fine Arts. There are also many restaurants, cafes, and shops around the square.
