Overview

The Exchange has symbolised the prosperity of Lyons since the end of the Middle Ages for it is here that the famous fairs have been held. An establishment was constructed in the middle of the 17th century to welcome bankers and had to be extended very quickly - the architect J.G. Soufflot was chosen because of his success on the Presqu'île. From 1748 to 1750 he reintroduced classic architecture to renovate the façade of the lodge. He particulary stayed with the normal order of things in placing Ionic capital columns on the first level between each window, and a Doric architrave on the floor above. This little edifice is not without similarities to Hotel Dieu whose sobriety and harmony of classic architecture made Soufflot a success. Call to know the timings.