Saint-Cyr-au-Mont-d’Or

High on a hill overlooking Lyon sits Saint-Cyr-au-Mont-d’Or. It’s a town of contrasts. Its name, “Saint-Cyr-at-the-Mount-of-Gold,” hints at its affluent nature. Saint-Cyr-au-Mont-d’Or is indeed one of the wealthiest communities in the Lyon Metropolis. Yet, nestled within this modern prosperity are echoes of a rich and layered past. Saint-Cyr-au-Mont-d’Or whispers stories of Roman ingenuity, Renaissance splendor, and a chilling 19th-century crime. The Romans, ever practical, recognized the value of Saint-Cyr-au-Mont-d’Or’s abundant springs. They built an aqueduct to channel the fresh water to the baths and forum of Lugdunum, present-day Lyon. Remnants of this ancient aqueduct still stand in Saint-Cyr-au-Mont-d’Or, a testament to Roman engineering. Centuries later, during the Renaissance, wealthy Lyonnais discovered the allure of Saint-Cyr-au-Mont-d’Or. They built grand country houses here, seeking respite from the bustling city below. While few of these original houses remain, the spirit of their elegance persists in the grand 19th-century homes built by Lyon’s chemists and silk merchants. Saint-Cyr-au-Mont-d’Or also holds a darker tale. In 1859, a gruesome triple murder shocked the community and made headlines around the world. The victims were Marie Desfarges, her daughter, and her mother. They were brutally murdered in their farmhouse by three men who then robbed and violated the women. The crime, known as “The Saint-Cyr Tragedy,” became a media sensation and even inspired a television episode. Today, Saint-Cyr-au-Mont-d’Or has shed the shadow of that tragic event. It thrives as a vibrant suburb of Lyon, offering its residents a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and modern amenities. From hiking trails on Mont Cindre and Mont Thou to the cultural events at the local library, Saint-Cyr-au-Mont-d’Or provides a rich tapestry of experiences. The town’s weekly Saturday market adds a touch of local charm, while the presence of the National Police Academy speaks to its contemporary importance. Saint-Cyr-au-Mont-d’Or is more than just a wealthy suburb. It is a community woven from threads of history, tragedy, and resilience. It stands as a living testament to the enduring power of the human spirit, constantly evolving yet always connected to its past.