Prefecture hotel of Rhône, Administrative building and historical monument in 3rd arrondissement of Lyon, France
The Prefecture Hotel of Rhône sits on Cours de la Liberté with protected facades, a grand staircase, and formal reception rooms designed for official ceremonies. The structure blends administrative offices with spaces meant for formal gatherings and state business.
Construction began in 1883 under architect Antoine-Georges Louvier and was completed in 1890. It replaced a previous prefecture location as the city's administrative center.
The building houses the regional prefecture and administration offices that govern the Rhône department from Lyon. You can sense how these spaces reflect the identity and authority of local governance.
Access to the interior is normally restricted, but during Heritage Days in September visitors can see the administrative rooms and historical salons. It is worth checking in advance when these special openings take place, as dates vary year to year.
An assassination at this location in 1894 led to one of the salons being renamed to commemorate the event. This dark chapter connects the building to a pivotal moment in French political history.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
