Place Bir Hakeim

Complete Guide to Bir-Hakeim Lyon: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction to Place Bir-Hakeim

Place Bir-Hakeim, located in Lyon’s 3rd arrondissement, stands as a vibrant urban square that beautifully melds the city’s rich World War II heritage with contemporary community life. Named after the pivotal Battle of Bir Hakeim (May–June 1942)—where Free French Forces heroically resisted the German Afrika Korps—the square serves as a living memorial to French resilience and Lyon’s crucial role in the Resistance. Over time, Place Bir-Hakeim has become both a commemorative site and a lively community hub, featuring mid-20th-century urban design, lush green spaces, and a calendar filled with local events. Its ongoing transformation through participatory urban planning highlights Lyon’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement. This guide offers everything you need to know about visiting Place Bir-Hakeim, from its history and architecture to practical visitor tips and nearby attractions (Wikipedia: Battle of Bir Hakeim; Lyon City Planning; Mairie du 3e arrondissement official site).

Introduction
Historical Significance
Urban Development and Design
Architectural Features
Social and Community Life
Environmental Initiatives
Visitor Information
Nearby Attractions & Suggested Itinerary
Events and Festivals
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
Sources

Historical Significance

Place Bir-Hakeim’s name commemorates the 1942 Battle of Bir Hakeim, a defining event for the Free French Forces under General Marie-Pierre Kœnig. The square’s central monument, featuring a quote by Charles de Gaulle, is the focal point for remembrance ceremonies, particularly on Victory in Europe Day (May 8) and the Appel du 18 Juin (June 18). This memorial underscores Lyon’s legacy as a center of Resistance and honors those who fought for France’s freedom (Wikipedia: Battle of Bir Hakeim).

Urban Development and Design

Post-War Expansion

Following World War II, Lyon’s 3rd arrondissement underwent significant redevelopment. Once an industrial, working-class area, it was reshaped with new infrastructure, green spaces, and public amenities to foster community life. Place Bir-Hakeim was conceived as a functional hub, connecting major roads and providing accessible open space (Lyon City Planning).

Recent Initiatives

Participatory planning has played a major role in the square’s recent evolution. Residents contribute ideas—for example, adding benches and planting trees—to enhance comfort and environmental quality. These community-driven projects reflect Lyon’s dedication to creating sustainable, inclusive public spaces (Oye Participer: Place Bir-Hakeim Proposal).

Architectural Features

Place Bir-Hakeim features mid-20th-century modernist design, characterized by wide boulevards, tree-lined walkways, and landscaped gardens. Its open layout is framed by residential and commercial buildings, offering shaded seating and accessible amenities. The central monument to the Free French Forces and Resistance movement stands as a powerful reminder of the square’s historical roots.

The square thrives as a venue for community gatherings, festivals, and informal meetings. Local associations, such as COMPAGNIE TOUS EN SCÈNE and CHORALE VOICE SHAKER, use the space for performances and workshops. Families enjoy a large children’s play area, and the square regularly hosts open-air markets, concerts, and neighborhood festivals. Community initiatives, like communal composting launched by the Vol’Terre Part-Dieu association, promote sustainability and social cohesion.

Environmental Initiatives

Recent greening projects—including new tree plantings and the establishment of a communal compost—underscore Place Bir-Hakeim’s role in Lyon’s environmental strategy. These efforts are part of the city’s broader “super-îlots” project, aimed at creating greener, pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods (Lyon Green Spaces).

Visitor Information

Hours & Entry

Open 24/7: Place Bir-Hakeim is a public square accessible at all times, free of charge.
No Tickets Required: Entry is always free. Some nearby museums or community events may charge a small fee; check individual websites for details.

Accessibility

Barrier-Free Design: The square features accessible pathways and seating areas suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Public Transportation: Metro stations Garibaldi (Line D) and Saxe-Gambetta (Lines B, D) are within walking distance. Bus lines C10, C11, C12, C14, C25, and 69 serve the area. Vélo’v bike-sharing and regional train lines C28, C9, and K6 also offer convenient access (Moovit; Lyon Urban Mobility).
Accessible Facilities: Nearby restaurants and hotels are certified accessible, and public toilets are available (Visiter Lyon).

Getting There

Use Lyon’s TCL network or plan your route with real-time updates via Moovit or Google Maps. Major stops nearby include Félix Faure - Vivier Merle, Abondance, Garibaldi, and Manufacture Montluc.

Guided Tours & Events

While Place Bir-Hakeim itself does not offer official guided tours, it is often included in broader walking tours focused on Lyon’s WWII history. Local associations and the Centre d’Histoire de la Résistance et de la Déportation occasionally organize events and commemorative walks. Check with the Lyon Tourist Office or community boards for schedules (ONLYLYON Tourism).

Photographic Spots

Key photo opportunities include the central monument, tree-lined walkways, children’s play area, and community events. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting for photography.

Tips for Visitors

Best Times to Visit: Spring and summer offer pleasant weather and vibrant events; winter brings the city’s famous Festival of Lights.
Safety: The area is safe and well-lit, but keep an eye on personal belongings during busy times.
Local Etiquette: Greet locals with “Bonjour,” and help maintain the square’s cleanliness.
Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available in parts of Lyon; use transit and city apps for navigation.
Language: French is primary, but English is commonly spoken in service areas.

Nearby Attractions & Suggested Itinerary

Musée des Moulages: Explore unique plaster cast collections nearby (Musée des Moulages information).
Parc Jacob-Kaplan: A tranquil park for a stroll or picnic.
Cemetery of Guillotière: Discover Lyon’s historical legacy.
Former La Buire Industrial Site: Witness urban transformation.
Presqu’île District: Bustling shopping and dining area.
Parc de la Tête d’Or: Lyon’s largest park with a zoo and botanical gardens.
Museums: Musée des Confluences, Museum of Textiles and Decorative Arts, Museum of Contemporary Art, Miniature and Cinema Museum, Lumière Institute Museum.

Recommended Itinerary:
Begin with a morning at Place Bir-Hakeim, visit Musée des Moulages, enjoy Parc Jacob-Kaplan, and explore nearby markets or cafés.

Events and Festivals

Festival of Lights (Fête des Lumières): December, with spectacular citywide light installations (Festival of Lights).
Lyon Street Food Festival: June, celebrating local and international cuisine.
Nuits de Fourvière: Summer performing arts festival at the Roman theatres.
Community Concerts & Markets: Seasonal events organized by local associations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours of Place Bir-Hakeim?
A: The square is open 24/7, year-round.

Q: Is there an entry fee or ticket required?
A: No, it is a free public space. Some nearby attractions may charge a fee.

Q: Is Place Bir-Hakeim accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the square and nearby public transport are designed for accessibility.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Place Bir-Hakeim is included in historical walking tours; check with the Lyon Tourist Office.

Q: What are the nearby attractions?
A: Museums, parks, historic sites, and the Presqu’île shopping district are easily accessible.

Conclusion

Place Bir-Hakeim is both a site of historical remembrance and a vibrant, contemporary public space at the heart of Lyon’s 3rd arrondissement. It welcomes visitors year-round with its open access, accessible design, and lively community spirit. With its commemorative monuments, green spaces, and proximity to cultural and historical attractions, Place Bir-Hakeim is an essential stop for anyone wishing to explore Lyon’s unique blend of history, culture, and urban vitality. For real-time transit updates, event schedules, and guided tour information, download the Audiala app and follow official channels for the latest news.