It's one of the most anticipated back-to-school events for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and bargain hunters: the European Heritage Days are back in Lyon on September 19 and 20. For this 43rd edition, the city will once again open the doors to numerous cultural and heritage sites, often completely free of charge. Museums, historic buildings, usually inaccessible institutions… Lyon transforms into a giant exploration playground for two days.
Among Lyon's cultural institutions, the Museum of Fine Arts will notably offer free and open access to its permanent collections. The Gadagne Museum, the macLYON, and many other establishments will also participate in the event with visits, activities, and unique discoveries. In short, it's the perfect time to fill your cultural calendar without traumatizing your bank account.
Villa Berliet, an Art Nouveau gem exceptionally open
Head to the 3rd district to discover one of Lyon's most hidden gems: the Villa Berliet. Built for industrialist Marius Berliet and completed in 1912, this magnificent Art Nouveau mansion opens its doors exceptionally this weekend. Period décor, furnishings, and architecture will allow visitors to step back in time into the world of one of Lyon's great industrial families.
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Listed as a Historic Monument, the villa will be open to the public free of charge for self-guided visits on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 6pm. A 1912 Rochet Schneider van will also be on display in the park. Yes, even vintage cars get their moment in the spotlight.
The Military Governor's Hotel opens its doors
Another place rarely accessible to the general public: the Military Governor's Hotel in Lyon, in the 6th district. This private mansion, built in 1858 for Baron Joseph Vitta before being acquired by the City in 1913, will welcome visitors on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. A rare opportunity to step inside this building that's normally closed and discover a little-known gem of Lyon's heritage.
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Behind the Scenes at the Lyon Conservatory
The National Higher Conservatory of Music and Dance in Lyon, located in the 9th district, will also participate in Heritage Days. Free tours, guided visits, treasure hunts, and musical and dance happenings are planned throughout the weekend. The perfect opportunity to discover the behind-the-scenes workings and architecture of this emblematic institution of Lyon's artistic creation.
The Mysterious Saint-Marc Chapel, Hidden in the Heart of Lyon
This is probably one of the most unusual discoveries in this selection. The Saint-Marc Chapel is hidden inside the Saint-Marc high school, in the 2nd district, and remains completely invisible from the street. Built in the 19th century, it features frescoes that recently regained their brilliance thanks to
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During Heritage Days, the venue will exceptionally and freely open its doors to visitors. Restored frescoes, colorful stained glass windows and a listed organ are on the agenda, with even a few little concerts organized throughout the weekend. A real hidden gem, just like Lyon knows so well how to tuck away behind its facades.
And what about Saint-Jean Cathedral in all this?
In Old Town Lyon, Saint-Jean Cathedral will also take part in European Heritage Days with several activities and free visits. Visitors will be able to discover its Treasure and uncover the secrets of this monumental building, constructed between the 12th and 15th centuries. A perfect excuse to rediscover one of Lyon's most iconic monuments with a little less rush than during a simple stroll through Old Town.
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Between free museums in Lyon, historic mansions, historical monuments and secret places usually closed to the public, the European Heritage Days promise a particularly packed weekend. Our tip: bring comfortable shoes. Lyon's heritage is vast, and it clearly has no intention of letting itself be discovered from your couch.
Article inspired by Circuit Lyon