“Lyon, terre d’humanisme et aussi terre des belles lettres…” reads the inscription at the foot of the La Bibliotheque de la Cité des écrivains en Rhône-Alpes Mural. It captures the spirit of this painted wall. This isn’t just a mural. It’s a tribute to Lyon’s rich literary history.
La Bibliotheque de la Cité des écrivains en Rhône-Alpes Mural is also known as the Mur des Écrivains. It is a must-see in Lyon. The mural depicts a giant library. Each book represents an author linked to Lyon. They were either born there, lived there, or wrote there.
The La Bibliotheque de la Cité des écrivains en Rhône-Alpes Mural was created by CitéCréation in 1998. The mural spans 400 square meters. It stands at the angle of rue de la Platière and quai de la Pêcherie in Lyon’s 1st arrondissement.
Look closely. You’ll see nearly 500 literary references. The La Bibliotheque de la Cité des écrivains en Rhône-Alpes Mural celebrates Lyon’s literary tradition. It offers visitors a unique cultural experience. The books on this wall seem to speak.
Among the many writers represented, Frédéric Dard is one. He lived for over 10 years at 4 rue Callas. Dard was born in Bourgoin-Jailleu. He died in Bonnefontaine, Switzerland. In the 1930s, his family moved to Lyon. There, he became a reporter and began writing his “San Antonio” novels.
The La Bibliotheque de la Cité des écrivains en Rhône-Alpes Mural is a showcase of literary news. It is updated and added to. Nearby booksellers along the quai promote the merits of reading outdoors.
Imagine Louise Labé’s tears mingling with Voltaire’s cries. Picture the Little Prince saying goodbye next to Guignol’s Lyon-based antics. From Monsieur de Lyon to the Gone du Chaâba, from poetry to crime novels, from theatre to award-winning novels, they are all here.
The lighting was designed by Philippe Hutinet and the Ville de Lyon’s Public Lighting Service. They highlight the mural’s details. This makes it visible and engaging day and night.
As you stand before the La Bibliotheque de la Cité des écrivains en Rhône-Alpes Mural, you are at the meeting point of painting and writing. Take a moment to appreciate this tribute. It celebrates Lyon’s literary soul. It’s a place where books come to life. They share their stories with all who pass by.