Lyon is the third-largest city in France, after Paris and Marseille, and is located in the southeast of the country. It is known for its history, culture, architecture, and gastronomy. Here are 5 facts about Lyon that you may not know:
1. It is the Capital of French Cuisine
Lyon is considered the gastronomic capital of France and has been home to some of the world’s best chefs, including Paul Bocuse and Paul Haeberlin. The city is famous for its bouchons, small restaurants serving traditional Lyonnaise cuisine. It is also home to the world-renowned restaurant, Le Bistrot du Potager, which is one of the most celebrated restaurants in France.
2. It is the Birthplace of Cinema
Lyon is considered the birthplace of cinema and was home to the first film studio, which was built in 1895 by Auguste and Louis Lumière. The brothers are credited with inventing the first motion picture camera and producing the first public screening of a film. Every year, the city hosts the Festival Lumière, which celebrates the history of cinema.
3. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Lyon is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The first is the Historic Site of Lyons, which is a collection of Roman monuments, medieval and Renaissance architecture, and industrial buildings. The second is the Fourvière Basilica and the Hill of Fourvière, which is a hill overlooking the city and is home to the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière.
4. It is the Home of the World’s Largest Illuminated Fountain
The Fountain of the Three Graces is located in the Parc de la Tête d’Or and is the largest illuminated fountain in the world. It was built in 1857 and is composed of three bronze sculptures representing the three Graces of Greek mythology. The fountain is illuminated at night and is a popular tourist attraction.
5. It is a City of Art and History
Lyon is a city rich in art and history. It is home to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, one of the most important art museums in France. It is also home to the Roman Theatres of Fourvière, which is a Roman amphitheatre from the 1st century AD. Additionally, the city has a number of historic churches, including the Cathedral of Saint-Jean-Baptiste and the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière.
These are just a few facts about the city of Lyon. From its rich culinary tradition to its cultural and historical sites, Lyon is a city that has a lot to offer.