La Préfecture

A middle class enclave centered around the Rhône Prefecture building, between the banks of the Rhône and its promenade and the Part Dieu area, the Prefecture district certainly has a lot to offer. Less prestigious than its neighbor the 6^th arrondissement, it is no less elegant and has the advantage of being more affordable than the its counterpart! BARNES Lyon gives you the guided tour of this district, and all the other districts of Lyon.

Real estate in the Prefecture district: architecture with character

Built around the Prefecture, the elegant 19^th century Haussmann-style buildings house spacious apartments with high ceilings and large windows. Several building programs have taken root in succession on this left bank of the Rhône. The late 19^th century saw the construction of the government buildings in this area, confirming the district’s role as the new center of Lyon, complementing the old center squeezed on the Presqu’île between the Saône and the Rhône. Thus this symbol of the State, the Rhône Prefecture, was built in 1890, a building constructed in answer to a deliberate urban planning policy by the Hospices, which were hoping to increase the value of the surrounding land! “Islands” with central courtyards were thus designed, with buildings around the edges, thus creating a communal courtyard in the center, often laid out as a garden. This is the case with the building located on the corners of Avenue de Saxe and Rue Bonnel, Rue Corneille and Rue Rabelais, designed by the architect Étienne Curny. The four sides along the streets are built around a huge garden. A unique architectural style which is found mainly in the Prefecture district. Discreet and few in number, these havens of greenery and tranquility are naturally highly prized.

The Prefecture, the heart of the district 

A monument characteristic of the city of Lyon, the Prefecture is the heart of the district and contributes to its solemnity and its distinction. Built by the architect Antonin Louvier, it was inaugurated on August 18, 1890. Part of the building (facades, roofs, large double spiral staircase, council room) has been listed as a historic monument since October 15, 1981. “Antique” column, “Mansart” roof, frescoes, sculptures, grand staircase, formal lounges, gildings and silks from the renowned Tassinari & Chatel silk weavers all highlight the splendor of the building.

What to do in the Prefecture district?

Restaurants and bars abound on the barges and the river bank, perfect for moment of conviviality on the waterfront. As night falls, admire the stunning view over the city and the illuminated bridges… a holiday atmosphere just yards from your front door! In addition to the barges anchored along the Rhône, the streets surrounding the Palais de Justice are home to various restaurants such as the Cantine du Palais, Le Garage, and Daniel & Denise. 

The parks may be lacking in number, but provide an oasis of green, particularly when the trees are in leaf: the Jardin Général Delestraint at 8 Quai Augagneur, and the Square Jussieu, on the left bank of the Rhône at the junction of Quai Augagneur and the Cours de la Liberté.

Budding athletes can go jogging or cycling along the river banks, or head to one of the fitness centers offering various activities: Rabelais Fitness Center, Europe Karate Club, the Appart Fitness Prefecture or the Wellness Sport Club. 

And, for lovers of the performing arts, the Théâtre Tête d’Or, with seating for 253, is the top venue for enjoyable entertainment. On the agenda - comedy, vaudeville, humor and fantasy! 

Schooling & Transportation in the Prefecture district 

T1 tramway and metro access via the Guillotière station.

• École maternelle et primaire Paul Painlevé
• École primaire privée Immaculée-Conception
• École primaire privée Saint-Sacrement
• Collège public Raoul Dufy
• Lycée Ampère

Discover all the districts of the third arrondissement of Lyon :

• Montchat