Place des Jacobins Lyon
A place through the centuries centuries
From the Jacobins to the Elegants
The square’s name derives from a former Dominican convent (the Jacobins) established here in the 13th century. Initially a place of religious life, successive revolutions gave it a new face. Out with the monks, in with ambitious urbanization!
A showcase of Haussmann architecture
It was in the 19th century that the square took on its current form, with its opulent buildings, ornate facades and elegant balconies. It quickly became a symbol of prestige for the Lyon bourgeoisie, who proudly took up residence here.
The Jacobins fountain: the star of the square
It’s impossible to talk about the Place des Jacobins without mentioning its magnificent fountain. Created in 1885 by Lyonnais artist Gaspard André (yes, the same architect as the Théâtre des Célestins), it celebrates four great figures of Lyonnais art: Philippe de Champaigne, Germain Pilon, Guillaume Coustou, and Hippolyte Flandrin. These perfectly executed statues embody the city’s rich cultural and artistic heritage.
An amusing detail?
Maintenance of the fountain, once a tedious job, was often entrusted to washers in overalls. One day, one of them slipped into the pool, causing widespread hilarity among passers-by… and a nice photo in the local press.
Stories from the square
1- A lion on the move
During a circus parade in the 1920s, a lion briefly escaped and crossed the Place des Jacobins, spreading panic among the inhabitants. Fortunately, the beast was quickly subdued. Since then, people have joked that the fountain is missing a lion statue.
2- Lovers of the Jacobins
With its benches and soft night lighting, the square has become a popular spot for couples. Urban legend has it that making a wish under the light of a lamppost by circling the fountain three times will bring good luck to lovers.
3- A movie set
The timeless beauty of the square has made it a movie star. She regularly appears in films, as if playing her own role: that of a living set, blending romance and elegance.