“Lights, camera, action,” could be echoing around us because we are standing before Le mur du cinéma. It is a mural dedicated to the history of cinema. Specifically, it honors Lyon’s contribution to the art form. Cinema was born here just over a century ago.
Le mur du cinéma is located at the angle of Cours Gambetta and Grande Rue de la Guillotière. The mural covers 500 square meters. Lyon is known for its murals. This one is a prime example of the city’s artistic flair.
The fresco illustrates the history of cinema. It starts with the first silent film. This film is “La Sortie des Usines Lumière”. It moves through the famous filmings in Lyon. One example is “L’horloger de St-Paul”.
The mural has a filming set at the top. The first film is staged at the bottom. One of the Lumière brothers is featured. Films shot in Lyon are on the side.
The Lumière brothers brought cinema to life in Lyon in 1895. The first demonstration took place in Paris. It was March 22, 1895. The audience saw “La Sortie d’Usine”. This happened at the Société d’Encouragement pour l’Industrie Nationale. The Lumière brothers patented their invention on February 13, 1895.
Cité de la Création created Le mur du cinéma in 1996. This cooperative of artists was founded in Lyon in 1978. They have created over 650 frescoes. They are a world leader in monumental mural design. In 2007, they received the “Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant” label. This was awarded by the Ministry of Economy, Finance and Employment.
Look closely at the details. Painters finish the facade on the first floor. Workers hang a trompe-l’œil window on the fourth floor. A cameraman films on his modern trolley. This is in front of a projection of the factory exit. A woman walks her dog. The dog seems more interested in pulling the leash.
Le mur du cinéma is a beautiful creation. You can even view it at night. The facade is illuminated. So make sure to come back to admire it in the dark. This mural is a tribute to Lyon’s cinematic legacy. It celebrates the city’s contribution to the world of film. It shows Lyon is not just a city, it’s a stage.