Have you ever noticed the colourful scenes on the walls of the Gare de Lyon? These are not just random paintings, they tell a story about the history and destinations of the railway line. This magnificent artwork is called the Fresque, and it’s truly awe-inspiring.
This Fresque, a large mural, depicts the journey from Paris to Menton, on the French Riviera. The story of the Fresque is as captivating as the scenes themselves. The first part was painted in 1900, presenting six Mediterranean cities. This was commissioned by the Compagnie des chemins de fer de Paris à Lyon et à la Méditerranée, the railway company responsible for this line.
The Fresque reflects the growing interest in leisure travel in the early 20th century. The French Riviera was becoming a popular destination for wealthy tourists, and the Fresque acted as a kind of advertisement for the region. It continued to grow over the decades. In the 1920s, the cities of Lyon, Avignon, Tarascon and Nîmes were added. Panels featuring Venice were also included.
The Fresque was completed in 1980 when the Paris-Lyon portion of the mural was added. The national railway company, SNCF, chose which sites were to be included, resulting in a fascinating blend of historical and modern scenes. This makes the Fresque so unique and interesting, you can see a horse-drawn cart next to a modern car, and historical buildings alongside contemporary ones. These anachronisms really add to its charm.
The Fresque is not just a visual masterpiece, it’s also a historical document, reflecting the evolution of travel and the popularity of certain destinations. It’s a wonderful reminder of the past, and the Fresque is an absolute must-see, offering a glimpse into the history of the railway line and the French Riviera.