Église Saint-Georges - a church with a clock on the top of it
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Église Saint-Georges

4.5
·902 reviews·Lyon, France

A 6th-century church reborn in Neo-Gothic splendor, famed for its dragon-slaying saint facade.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Admire the architecture

CrowdMedium
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Église Saint-Georges - a church with a clock on the top of it

Église Saint-Georges

Best Time

Daytime

Admire the architecture

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 6th-century church reborn in Neo-Gothic splendor, famed for its dragon-slaying saint facade.

4.5
(902 reviews)

"Stunning Neo-Gothic architecture, especially admired from the Passerelle Saint-Georges bridge."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Bridge Views are Key

Admire the church's facade from the Passerelle Saint-Georges Suspension Bridge for the best photos.

⏰ Check Opening Hours

The church may be closed when you visit; admire its exterior beauty from the street.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Neo-Gothic Facade

Neo-Gothic Facade

Exterior

Admire the intricate Neo-Gothic architecture, a testament to its 19th-century reconstruction.

Saint George Slaying the Dragon

Saint George Slaying the Dragon

Main Entrance Pediment

Don't miss the detailed sculpture above the main door, depicting the iconic legend.

View from Passerelle Saint-Georges

View from Passerelle Saint-Georges

Passerelle Saint-Georges Suspension Bridge

Get a stunning perspective of the church's beautiful facade from this nearby bridge.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

While Église Saint-Georges is a historical gem, check its opening hours before you go, as they can vary. Many visitors admire its Neo-Gothic facade from the outside, especially from the Passerelle Saint-Georges Suspension Bridge, even if the interior is closed.

Exploring the Surroundings

Located in the Vieux Lyon (Old Town), Église Saint-Georges is part of a vibrant area. Consider exploring the charming streets and the Saône riverbanks nearby. The area was named after the church, highlighting its historical significance.

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Admire the architecture
Crowd
Medium
When
Evening
Why
Scenic views from bridge
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Do's and Don'ts of the St. George Area?

📸 Bridge Views are Key

Admire the church's facade from the Passerelle Saint-Georges Suspension Bridge for the best photos. Reddit

⏰ Check Opening Hours

The church may be closed when you visit; admire its exterior beauty from the street. Reddit

reddit.com

what the deal with st. george?

🚶 Explore Vieux Lyon

The church is in the historic Vieux Lyon, so plan time to wander the charming old town. Reddit

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Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Bridge Views are Key

Admire the church's facade from the Passerelle Saint-Georges Suspension Bridge for the best photos. Reddit

⏰ Check Opening Hours

The church may be closed when you visit; admire its exterior beauty from the street. Reddit

🚶 Explore Vieux Lyon

The church is in the historic Vieux Lyon, so plan time to wander the charming old town. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(902 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often admire the stunning Neo-Gothic architecture of Église Saint-Georges, particularly its facade and the Saint George sculpture. While many find it beautiful from the outside, some note that it can be closed when they visit. The views from the nearby Passerelle Saint-Georges bridge are frequently highlighted as a must-see.

"Église Saint-Georges was established in the 6th century and underwent several reconstructions over the centuries. The current structure, completed in 1848, was designed by architect Pierre Bossan in the Neo-Gothic style. The façade features a sculpture of Saint George slaying the dragon."

Kent Wang

"Built in 1844, the first work of Pierre Bossan, which he considered his "youthful sin", the St-Georges church, in neo-Gothic style, is located on the site of the Commanderie of the same name, which occupied the places since the Middle Ages."

Artur Victoria

"A beautiful Church located on the right side of the Saône river. Unfortunately it was closed when I visited but thoroughly admired the building. This is a neo-gothic architecture and a listed monument. It's particularly stunning if viewing from the Passerelle Saint George Suspension Bridge as one really appreciate the beautiful Church façades. Of note is the main entrance door with the pediment showing Saint George slaying the dragon. It's also on the Vieux-Port of Lyon which is the old city. Beautiful Church to look at."

Antoine M

What People Like

Beautiful Neo-Gothic facade
Saint George sculpture
Views from bridge

What People Dislike

Often closed to visitors

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Église Saint-Georges is located in the Vieux Lyon (Old Town) on the Saône river. You can reach it by walking from the city center or using public transport. Several bus lines stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from the Vieux Lyon metro station (Line D).

Yes, Église Saint-Georges is well-served by public transport. Look for bus stops in the Vieux Lyon area. It's also a walkable distance from the Vieux Lyon – Cathédrale Saint-Jean metro station.

Many visitors find the best views of Église Saint-Georges are from the Passerelle Saint-Georges Suspension Bridge, offering a fantastic perspective of its Neo-Gothic facade. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Église Saint-Georges is typically free, as it is a functioning church. However, it's advisable to check its specific opening hours as it may be closed at certain times. Reddit

Opening hours for Église Saint-Georges can vary and are not always consistently published online. It's best to check locally or be prepared to admire its exterior if it's closed during your visit. Reddit

No, Église Saint-Georges is not always open to visitors. Many reviews mention finding it closed, so planning your visit around potential opening times or enjoying the exterior is recommended. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Église Saint-Georges is a prime example of Neo-Gothic architecture. The current structure was completed in 1848, designed by architect Pierre Bossan, who also considered it his 'youthful sin'.

The facade of Église Saint-Georges is notable for its Neo-Gothic design and, importantly, features a pediment sculpture of Saint George slaying the dragon above the main entrance. Reddit

Established in the 6th century, Église Saint-Georges has undergone several reconstructions. The current Neo-Gothic building dates back to 1848, built on the site of a medieval Commanderie. Reddit

Absolutely! Even when closed, the exterior of Église Saint-Georges is stunning, especially its Neo-Gothic facade and the Saint George sculpture. The views from the nearby Passerelle Saint-Georges bridge are also highly recommended. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

📸 Photographers

For photographers, Église Saint-Georges offers a dual appeal: its striking Neo-Gothic exterior and its picturesque setting. The sculpture of Saint George slaying the dragon on the facade is a must-capture detail. Reddit The Passerelle Saint-Georges Suspension Bridge provides an exceptional vantage point for capturing the entire church facade, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. Consider framing shots that include the river or the charming architecture of Vieux Lyon.

Be aware that interior access can be limited, so focus on mastering exterior shots. The surrounding streets of Vieux Lyon also present numerous photographic opportunities, from charming cobblestone alleys to Renaissance buildings, making the church a central point in a wider photographic exploration of the area.

🚶 History Buffs

History enthusiasts will appreciate that Église Saint-Georges dates back to the 6th century, with its current Neo-Gothic structure completed in 1848 by architect Pierre Bossan. Reddit The site itself has a long history, having been a Commanderie since the Middle Ages. This layering of historical periods offers a rich context for understanding the evolution of Lyon.

Investigate the legend of Saint George depicted on the facade, a common motif in medieval art and architecture. The church's location in Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, further enhances its historical significance, allowing for a deeper dive into the city's past by exploring the surrounding ancient streets and buildings.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Significance

Église Saint-Georges is a significant example of Neo-Gothic architecture in Lyon. The current structure, completed in 1848, was designed by the architect Pierre Bossan, who was instrumental in shaping the city's religious buildings. Bossan himself referred to this church as his 'youthful sin,' suggesting a personal passion and artistic investment in its creation. The style is characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and ornate detailing, reflecting a revival of medieval Gothic aesthetics in the 19th century.

The church stands on a site with deep historical roots, originally occupied by a Commanderie since the Middle Ages. This layering of history adds to its allure. While the interior is often praised for its beauty, the exterior itself is a masterpiece, particularly the facade featuring the iconic sculpture of Saint George slaying the dragon above the main entrance. This motif is a powerful visual representation of the church's namesake and a focal point for visitors. Reddit

Experiencing the Surroundings

Located in the heart of Vieux Lyon (Old Town), Église Saint-Georges is nestled within one of Lyon's most historic and picturesque districts. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its Renaissance architecture, traboules (hidden passageways), and vibrant atmosphere. The church's presence contributes to the rich tapestry of this ancient quarter.

A particularly recommended viewpoint for appreciating Église Saint-Georges is from the Passerelle Saint-Georges Suspension Bridge. This pedestrian bridge offers a unique and often breathtaking perspective of the church's facade, allowing visitors to capture stunning photographs and truly appreciate its scale and design. Reddit The proximity to the Saône River also adds to the charm of the area, with opportunities for scenic walks along the banks. Exploring the surrounding streets reveals more of Lyon's historical charm, making a visit to the church part of a broader exploration of the Vieux Lyon.

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