Édouard Herriot’s Legacy in Lyon: Monuments and Historical Sites
Édouard Herriot’s imprint on Lyon is visible in a variety of landmarks that honor his contributions to the city’s development and character. These sites offer both practical visitor experiences and a unique insight into Lyon’s past.
Rue Édouard-Herriot
Located in the heart of Lyon’s Presqu'île, Rue Édouard-Herriot is a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare known for its elegant architecture, luxury boutiques, and lively atmosphere.
- Visiting Hours Always open.
- Features Historic façades, shopping, cafés, and proximity to Place des Terreaux.
- Accessibility Fully pedestrianized and wheelchair accessible.
For more details, consult the Lyon Tourism Office.
Hôpital Édouard-Herriot
Named in Herriot’s honor, this major hospital in the 3rd arrondissement stands as a landmark of both medical history and early 20th-century architecture.
- Visitor Access Public areas are generally limited to patient visits.
- Address 69437 Lyon Cedex 03, France
- Nearby Parc de la Tête d’Or, ideal for a post-visit stroll.
Visiting hours and policies can be found at the Hospices Civils de Lyon.
Édouard Herriot’s Tomb at Loyasse Cemetery
Herriot’s tomb is located in the historic Loyasse Cemetery, a site renowned for its artistic and historical significance.
- Opening Hours Daily, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Admission Free
- Location 43 Rue du Cardinal Gerlier, 69005 Lyon
Loyasse Cemetery: A Must-Visit Historical Site
Situated atop Fourvière Hill, Loyasse Cemetery offers a blend of historical significance, funerary art, and natural beauty. It is often compared to Paris’s Père-Lachaise for its heritage and the distinguished figures buried here.
History and Heritage
Established in 1807 and opened for burials in 1813, Loyasse Cemetery was designed to accommodate Lyon’s growing urban population and to reflect the city’s new approach to public health and commemoration (Lyon.fr; Lyon Visite). The layout includes both radioconcentric and cross-shaped sections, and monuments to civic heroes such as Lyon’s firefighters.
Notable Personalities and Herriot’s Tomb
Loyasse is the final resting place for many of Lyon’s elite, including mayors, artists, scientists, and philanthropists. Herriot’s tomb is among the most visited, drawing annual commemorations and frequent tributes (France 3 Régions).
Architectural and Artistic Features
Loyasse Cemetery boasts an array of funerary monuments—ranging from grand mausoleums to ornate chapels and sculptures by prominent artists—which reflect the tastes and aspirations of Lyon’s 19th- and early 20th-century bourgeoisie (Lyon.fr). Walking routes and guided tours highlight these artistic features (Visiter Lyon).
Biodiversity and Environmental Initiatives
As Lyon’s first cemetery certified for biodiversity, Loyasse is a green haven managed with support from the Ligue de Protection des Oiseaux (LPO), offering refuge for wildlife and a tranquil atmosphere (Lyon.fr).
Practical Visitor Information
Opening Hours:
- November 3 to April 30: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- May 2 to November 2: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Closed: May 1 and July 14
Admission: Free
Accessibility:
- Main entrances and paths are accessible; some areas may be uneven.
- Wheelchair access is available with authorization for vehicles.
Getting There:
- Bus 90 (“Cimetière Loyasse” stop)
- Vélo’v bike stations nearby
- Limited car access; public transport recommended
Visitor Services:
- Maps at entrance
- Guided tours via Lyon tourism office
- Restrooms available
Etiquette:
- Remain quiet and respectful
- No eating/drinking on site
- Pets not permitted
Nearby Attractions:
- Basilica of Fourvière
- Parc des Hauteurs
- Vieux Lyon
Visiting the Tomb of Édouard Herriot: Hours, History, and Travel Tips
Historical Background
Édouard Herriot (1872–1957) served as mayor for over 50 years and played a critical role in Lyon’s modernization, championing infrastructure, education, and cultural development (French Moments: Lyon History). He also served as Prime Minister and President of the Chamber of Deputies.
The Setting
Cimetière de Loyasse is Lyon’s oldest modern cemetery, established in 1812, and is home to around 30,000 graves and 200 monuments (Loyasse Cemetery – OnlyLyon).
The Tomb: Description and Significance
Herriot’s tomb is immediately to the right of the main entrance, occupying a 30-square-meter plot. Sculpted by Georges Salendre, it stands as one of the cemetery’s most imposing monuments, harmoniously blending classical and modern elements (Le Progrès). It is a site of annual commemorations and a symbol of Lyon’s civic pride.
Practical Information
- Address 43 Rue du Cardinal Gerlier, 69005 Lyon
- Public Transport Metro Line D (Vieux Lyon), then funicular (F2) to Fourvière, followed by a short walk
- Opening Hours Daily, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (summer), 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (winter)
- Admission Free
- Restrooms Available near entrance
Navigating and Visitor Services
- Maps Available at entrance and OnlyLyon Tourism Pavilion
- Guided Tours Offered occasionally by Lyon tourism office
- Accessibility Main paths and the tomb area are wheelchair accessible
Etiquette and Tips
- Maintain quiet respect; photography allowed but should be unobtrusive
- Floral tributes welcome, especially on Herriot’s birthday (July 5) and death anniversary (March 26) (Lyon Capitale)
- Best times: Mornings, weekdays, spring, and autumn for tranquility and pleasant weather
Special Events and Restoration
- Annual commemorations on March 26
- The tomb was renovated in September 2016 (Le Progrès)
Summary of Key Visitor Information and Tips
- Location Loyasse Cemetery, 43 Rue du Cardinal Gerlier, 69005 Lyon
- Opening Hours Daily, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (summer), 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (winter), closed May 1 and July 14
- Admission Free
- Accessibility Main paths and tomb entrance are wheelchair-friendly
- Guided Tours Available through Lyon tourism office
- Nearby Basilica of Fourvière, Parc des Hauteurs, Vieux Lyon
- Etiquette Quiet, respectful conduct; photography allowed; floral tributes welcome
- Commemorations Annual ceremony on March 26
For up-to-date information and multimedia resources, visit the Official Lyon Tourism Website.
