Picture the scene. You stand in Place du Petit Collège a charming square nestled in Lyon’s Old Town. This isn’t just any square. It’s a place steeped in history. A place where centuries unfold before your eyes.
The Place du Petit Collège is more of a widening than a true square. It stretches from Rue de Gadagne to Rue du Boeuf. It’s a significant junction in Old Lyon’s second itinerary. To the north it connects to Rue du Garillan and Rue de la Fronde. To the south it leads to the smaller Rue Tramassac. This seemingly unassuming space holds remarkable stories.
The Petit Collège itself a stunning building now houses the 5th arrondissement’s town hall. It was originally built in 1731. It wasn’t always a town hall though. This grand building was founded much earlier in 1628 thanks to a generous donation from Gabrielle Gadagne. Jesuits ran the college. Father La Chaise its most famous rector. The building’s impressive facade is dominated by immense arches. These encompass the ground floor and mezzanine. Note the beautiful wooden entrance. Its open design beckons you to explore the grand square staircase beyond. A statue of Saint Jerome awaits within.
After the Jesuits the Brothers of the Salle took over in 1804. Pope Pius VII even blessed their chapel on April 16 1805. The order’s mother house remained here until 1821. The Petit Collège always played a crucial role. It served as a town hall school courthouse law and theology faculty and even a German-language church.
Look closely at the building. Notice its unique blend of old and new. It’s a testament to Lyon’s enduring spirit. While little remains of the medieval origins of the neighbourhood. The Place du Petit Collège stands as a reminder of the area’s rich past. It seamlessly blends into the Vieux Lyon landscape. Its charm is only occasionally diminished by passing cars.
Today the town hall hosts various associations. These include the neighbourhood council a music festival with five musical societies and a preparatory class for the fine arts school. There’s even a creative market. The museum of Gadagne is just around the corner. Here you can uncover Lyon’s history and see Guignol and other marionettes from around the world. The Place du Petit Collège isn’t just a square. It is the heart of this historical neighbourhood. A place where history art and community blend together. A place where stories whisper from the stones. A place you’ll want to remember long after you leave.