8 rue Juiverie
Enter at 8 rue Juiverie and head into the second courtyard. In the first courtyard, notice the well with a Renaissance canopy and shell.
Built in 1536 by Philibert de L'Orme, considered the greatest architect of the second French Renaissance, this gallery is one of the architectural jewels of Old Lyon. Philibert de L'Orme, famous for his prestigious works, including the façade of the Palais des Tuileries in Paris commissioned by Catherine de Medici, left his mark on this major project at 8 rue Juiverie with his genius.
The commission came from Antoine Bullioud, then owner of the premises, who had a very specific requirement: to connect the two buildings without reducing the size of the courtyard and without demolishing the central well, an essential element of the space. De L'Orme was able to rise to this challenge brilliantly, creating a harmonious gallery that optimises the space while retaining the functional and aesthetic character of the courtyard.
The two floors of this gallery are decorated in the antique style, with a subtle combination of Doric and Ionic styles. The columns on the ground floor and first floor are decorated with alternating fluting, while the volute capitals reinforce the refinement of the structure. This mastery of classical styles, typical of the Renaissance, testifies to De L'Orme's talent for combining tradition and innovation.
The interior of the gallery is no exception, with decorative frescoes that add a touch of color and life to the whole, creating an atmosphere that is both majestic and welcoming.
The gallery at 8 rue Juiverie, with its architectural balance and decorative richness, remains a perfect illustration of Philibert de L'Orme's expertise, and a precious witness to the history and architectural evolution of Old Lyon.
See our audio guided tour about this.