A colossal structure of white stone greets you. This is the Église de la Rédemption in Lyon. Its imposing presence is a testament to faith and perseverance.
The Église de la Rédemption wasn’t always this grand. It began as a humble temporary church in a hangar. This served the growing religious community for twenty years. Cardinal de Bonald established the Redemption religious district in 1856. He took land north of Cours Morand and Cours Vitton from the Saint-Pothin church. The temporary church was far from ideal.
Funding was eventually secured. The city of Lyon generously donated land. Construction of a permanent church began. The first stone was blessed although the exact date is lost to time. The Franco-Prussian War caused delays. Finally the Église de la Rédemption opened its doors in 1868. Sadly it remained incomplete. The planned bell tower was never built. Exterior sculptural decoration remained unfinished.
Despite its unfinished state the Église de la Rédemption is one of Lyon’s largest churches. It measures 62 meters long 28 meters across the transept and 32 meters high beneath the vaults. Its crypt is also one of the largest after the one at Fourvière.
Inside you’ll find a magnificent organ. Initially installed by Joseph Merklin it boasted 38 stops. Michel later expanded it to 52. Mgr Déchelette blessed the expanded instrument in 1899. Many stained-glass windows are the work of Lucien Bégule. They bathe the interior in a kaleidoscope of colors. Sculptures by Vincent Fontan grace the church. They add to the overall beauty of this architectural marvel.
The Église de la Rédemption stands as a symbol of faith resilience and the enduring spirit of Lyon. A visit here is a journey through time. A glimpse into the city’s rich religious and artistic heritage. It is a place where history echoes in the grandeur of the building. The echoes whisper the stories of those who built it and those who worship within its walls.