Église Saint-Maurice

Gazing up at the Église Saint-Maurice, it’s hard to believe this grand structure began as a humble, single-nave church. The Église Saint-Maurice stands proudly in Lyon’s 8th arrondissement, a testament to the evolving needs of the Monplaisir community. This church, dedicated to Saint Maurice, a martyr of the Theban Legion, has witnessed significant transformations since its inception in 1842. Initially designed by François Pascalon, the first Église Saint-Maurice was a modest structure. It was a far cry from the impressive edifice we see today. The burgeoning population of Monplaisir, following its annexation to Lyon in 1852, quickly outgrew this original building. Just five years later, in 1857, architect Tony Desjardins stepped in. He expanded the church, adding two aisles, the prominent flèche, and the familiar pillared façade. The church began to take on a more substantial form, reflecting the growth and prosperity of the surrounding area. Yet, even these additions proved insufficient for the flourishing community. By 1894, further expansion was necessary. This final, grand transformation was overseen by architect Louis Sainte-Marie-Perrin, known for his work on the iconic Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Sainte-Marie-Perrin added the apse, choir, transept, and an additional bay between 1895 and 1898, creating a blend of Romanesque and oriental architectural styles. Imagine the scene as the old church stood, surrounded by the rising new structure, until the final elements were completed. The inauguration of this enlarged Église Saint-Maurice by the Cardinal in March 1898 must have been a momentous occasion for the community. The stained glass windows, designed by Georges Décôte and crafted by P. Blanchon, depict significant figures: Saint Marguerite Marie, Saint Maurice himself, Christ on the cross, Joan of Arc, and Saint Alban. These vibrant windows bathe the interior in colorful light, adding another layer of richness to the church’s history. And the organ, a gift from the prominent Winckler-Lumière families, originally resided in a nearby Lumiere villa before finding its home within the Église Saint-Maurice, resonating with the history of Lyon’s cinematic pioneers. So, as you stand before the Église Saint-Maurice today, remember its humble beginnings, its growth alongside Monplaisir, and the architectural layers that speak to the enduring spirit of this community.