
Follow the first path of the water!
Few know of this treasure: yet it is a marvel underground: l'Ancienne Usine des Eaux (the old water plant) which until 1976 was used to supply the city of Lyon with drinking water. And that's saying something when you realise, with our two hills, all the ingenuity it took to meet the needs of Lyonnaise people.
After a slide show of the brief history of water from 43 BC, you will discover the famous and impressive Cornish steam pump, 20m high which is a historical monument within itself.
The tour does not stop there: it's down a narrow staircase that unfolds an amazing and beautiful pool filter. The atmosphere it creates is magical and peaceful, and the tour ends with a flourish.
Tour provided by ONLYLYON Tourisme et Congrès's tour guides
Good to know
Cancellation free of charge 72 hours before schedule activity
Children and minors remain under the responsibility of their parents during this visit. The participation of an adult is mandatory for each reservation
Duration
2h00
Kind
Guided tour on foot
Access
Bus C1 or C5 > Saint-Clair
Meeting point
In front of the Usine des Eaux (green gate), 2 avenue de Poumeyrol - Caluire-et-Cuire

A listed site in Caluire
The waterworks in Saint-Clair was put into service in 1856. With its huge 20 m high pumps, it produced over 20,000 m3 water a day! A historical monument since 1991, it is known as the "old lady of Saint Clair"..



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How lucky I am to have been able to study the history of art and archaeology in Lyon. It's magic! From the Roman theatres to the Musée des Confluences, past, present and future combine in beauty and harmony, just like the gold, silver and silk threads woven by the canuts.
Let's set out for a spot of "trabouling" with Rabelais' ghost, who will lead us from Hôtel-Dieu to the wealthy homes of the merchant bankers in Vieux-Lyon, stopping at inns, bouchons or star-rated restaurants on the way…
Let your eyes feast on the golden light that's worthy of Italy, and gilds the slopes of Croix-Rousse on summer evenings as you stroll along the embankment amid the seagulls and boats.
I love this city because life is so sweet here, and I love telling visitors all about it, as the enthusiastic urbanist in me sees the city as a living organism.

When seeking to share Lyon's heritage with people, I like to broach the question from the viewpoint of technical skills and know-how, and even economy, whether it's architecture and town planning, or vineyards and gastronomy.
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GUIDED TOURS | PUPPET SHOW | SHOPPING | WIFI

unlimited
transport
€29