L'Homme de la Roche, Historic statue near Saône River in Lyon, France
L'Homme de la Roche is a stone statue on the right bank of the Saône River in Lyon's 5th district, carved in 16th-century merchant dress with a purse held in the right hand. The figure rests in a niche carved directly into the rock face and can be reached by footbridge.
The marble figure was created by sculptor Pierre-Toussaint Bonnaire and unveiled in 1849, replacing earlier wooden versions that had stood in the same spot. It was placed to honor a wealthy German merchant from Nuremberg who helped Lyon in the 16th century.
The name refers to Jean Kleberg's connection to the rock he had removed from the river to help Lyon grow. The figure you see today commemorates both the man and the obstacle that once challenged the city.
The best way to reach the statue is to use the footbridge that begins from the street along the Saône bank. The monument can be visited anytime during daylight hours since it sits in a public outdoor location along the river.
Jean Kleberg is remembered for having a large rock removed from the Saône that blocked ships and halted trade during the Renaissance. This practical accomplishment made him more than just a benefactor - he was a problem solver for the city.
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