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The Food Traboule in Vieux Lyon

Lyon’s fancy food court.

Our local wine expert Caroline Conner takes you through the hotly anticipated Food Traboule

After a long time in the works and some very dramatic restoration of one of the Old Town’s most famous traboules, the Food Traboule opened in January 2020. Sure to be one of Lyon’s must visit spots , this project shows off what the Lyon restaurant scene is all about.

Whatever your expectations are, this place blew them out of the water.

The gorgeous courtyard of the Food Traboule

An Upscale Food Court in Lyon

The Food Traboule ( Lyon 5 ) is a food court that covers three stories and features an array of different concepts.

In total, there are 15 different counters. They have everything from lobster rolls and pizza to fine dining and pastries. There’s a full service bar on each floor.

Unlike La Commune, another favorite food court in Lyon , which features temporary concepts as a restaurant incubator , the Food Traboule is a place where established Lyon chefs can share a snapshot of their vision with the greater public.

Discover the Traboules, Lyon secret passageways

The players here are serious, and they have already proven themselves as successes with their own restaurants. There is a vibe of everyone knowing each other, because they do. This group is running the show in town now . The old school is boring, and this is where Lyon is at today.

Lob’s Lobster rolls

Lyon’s Most Exciting Chefs Under One Roof

I’m not exaggerating when I say that these are some of the most exciting chefs in town , particularly young couple Ludovic and Tabata Mey of Les Apothicaires,  who spearheaded the project. (Side note: you should go to their restaurant Les Apothicaires , it’s fantastic.)

Not only are these folks serving up super fresh, seasonal cuisine , but they’re being creative about it.

There’s salad and fritto misto and coffee and tiramisu and bouchon food and fancy savory waffles and so much wonderful stuff it’s hard to fit it in one article!

Lamb meatballs from Comptoir des Apothicaires

Design Worth Salivating Over

Not only was the array of different foods on display mightily impressive, but wow, the venue itself is just insane.

La Tour Rose, or The Pink Tower, was formerly a luxury hotel and restaurant which closed a number of years ago.

Turning such a weird building as any traboule into a functional space is a big challenge, but to do so with such grace and sense of adventure is another. The project was designed and built by heritage architect Cécile Rémond and the Collectif Saône.

Whatever they were going for, they succeeded.

Like all super old buildings, in this case Renaissance, there are no right angles, there are no easy ways to structure the space. Ultimately what they have crafted is a delightful maze of different spaces with totally different feelings. You can sit in one room and have a completely different experience than you would if you were sitting in the courtyard or one of the other rooms.

Each zone is lovingly detailed and finely wrought, I felt such giddy pleasure at turning the corner to see what was in store as I explored the building.

The ground floor entrance

Better photographers than me will be able to capture the feeling in here, but to really understand it, you must go yourself!

All Day Service at Food Traboule

Best of all, they’re open from 11am till 11pm and will serve continuously! Go here now, before it gets too crowded. My only concern is that I’ll never be able to go back again, because it will be so busy. I hope that’s not the case, because it was truly a pleasure to enjoy lunch with a friend in this spectacular and unique place.

Website: The Food Traboule in Vieux Lyon

More informations

Monday to Thursday from 11.45 am to 2.30pm then 6.30 pm to 10.30 pm Friday to Saturday from 11.45 am to 11 pm (food served non-stop) Sunday from 11.45 am to 10 pm

How to get there?

Métro Vieux-Lyon, line D

10 minutes walking from Place Bellecour

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Food Traboule

Food Traboule: this is more than just a food court, it’s a new welcoming place at the heart of La Tour Rose! Inviting you on both a culinary and social adventure, to experience the diversity of Lyon’s vibrant and creative gourmet specialities in a unique location that has been completely redesigned!

La Tour Rose, a famous restaurant and an exceptionally charming luxury hotel in Vieux-Lyon, had been dormant for several years. Tabata and Ludovic Mey have embarked on a new chapter, bringing renewed life to one of Lyon’s landmarks. They created Food Traboule as much more than just a food court, it's the creation of a new place to get together in the city. To sum up, Food Traboule is a historic 660 m2 location that includes 2 bars, 1 coffee shop, 7 rooms, 7 atmospheres, 1 event space, 240 seats and 12 chefs: Le Comptoir des Apothicaires, Ludo’s Pizza, Le Bistrot du Potager, Substrat - La Panifacture, La Meunière, Butcher Brother, Lyon’s Gastro Pub, Misto, Lob’s, MSB - Mon Salade Bar, La Baraque à Sucre and Le Bistrot du Sucré. There are vegetarian and vegan options available.

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Food Traboule, le nouveau temple de la cuisine, enflamme et enthousiasme

• 16 janvier 2020 À 12:58 - Mis à jour À 13:26
• par Guillaume Lamy

Edito - A peine ouverte, Food Traboule, la démente nouvelle adresse de restauration lyonnaise de la mythique Tour Rose rencontre un enthousiasme qui hisse ce restaurant hybride au niveau des plus grosses audiences culinaires de Lyon. N'en déplaise aux grincheux de service.

Food Traboule . Le nom a sacrément fait jaser sur les réseaux sociaux. Certains ont hurlé à la trahison, à la fourberie en assurant qu'il allait s'agir ni plus ni moins que d'un nouveau "Burger King" dans le Vieux-Lyon. Que le mot food était scandaleusement inapproprié. Etc. A ces persifleurs ( la critique et le jugement étant des classiques historiques de la culture française), nous ne pouvons que conseiller d'aller faire un tour dans ce nouveau temple de la cuisine, tout sauf "junk".

C'est plutôt un lieu hybride entre rock et Renaissance. Cheminée gothique et mange-debout.

Food Traboule , c'est à y penser un compromis plutôt malin entre les racines purement lyonnaises (la traboule, du latin trans ambulare et "symbole de la lyonnitude" , peut-on lire dans le Dictionnaire historique de Lyon) et l'anglais, troisième langue la plus parlée dans le monde (après le chinois mandarin et l'espagnol). Pour un quartier qui accueille 2,5 millions de visiteurs par an (sur 16,5 hectares, soit 15 personnes au m2), dont 30% d'Anglo-Saxons, l'anglicisme semblait judicieux.

Cette mise au point linguistique étant faite, le succès ne s'est pas démenti pour l'ouverture mercredi à 11h00 : 250 personnes pour le déjeuner et 400 le soir (avec, en prime, une bonne grosse file d'attente). Une journée qui ressemble aux "audiences" haut perchées de L'Ouest , la brasserie cardinale historique de Paul Bocuse, sur les quais de Saône, à Vaise. C'est 70% du nombre de couverts journaliers de la mythique Brasserie Georges .

650 couverts le premier jour

Les chiffres ne trompent pas. Pour son ouverture (il faut évidemment y voir le moment spécial de l'ouverture, la nouveauté), Food Traboule a vécu un succès monstre.

Et non, ce n'est pas de la malbouffe. Tout le contraire. A la différence des autres food courts de Lyon ( La Commune  à Gerland,  Heat  à Confluence,  Food Market à la Part-Dieu), Food Taboule - La Tour Rose  n'est pas un incubateur de chefs, un tremplin pour jeunes cuisiniers novices : les dix comptoirs-restaurants sont tous tenus par des professionnels ayant déjà pignon de pin sur rue (à l'exception de La Baraque à sucre).

On y mange aussi bien une cuisine de rue revisitée à la sauce lyonnaise signée La Meunière (tout sauf  de la junk food ) : kebab d'andouillette et frites de quenelle, le tout accompagné de nuggets de tablier de sapeur. Bluffant. Ou une fricassée de coeurs de canard, txistorra, champignons de Paris et persillade au Bistrot du Potager , qu'une gaufre de pain au mascarpone et truite gravlax d'Isère au Substrat qu'un oeuf hollandais présenté onsen japonais aux cèpes, cébettes, noisettes torréfiées sur une purée de topinambours des Apothicaires , etc.

Quant au prix, l'oeuf (un vrai plat bistronomique) est à 10 euros, la gaufre à la truite à 8 euros,  et on s'est partagé à deux un kebab d'andouillettes, frites de quenelles et nuggets de tablier de sapeur avec un coteaux-du-lyonnais "Les Traboules" de Clusel-Roch 2018 au verre : 17 euros chacun (juste après ça ce triptyque enthousiasmant on était repus-la-peau-du-ventre-bien-tendue-merci-petit-Jésus).

Dernier point, Food Traboule travaille avec des personnes en réinsertion ou qui ont le statut de réfugiés . Le lieu vise également, à court terme, le zéro déchet.

Alors, à tous les persifleurs, railleurs, cyniques et grincheux de service de tous poils, venez plutôt trabouler à la nouvelle Tour Rose.

PS : je n'ai aucune part dans l'histoire, je suis fauché comme les blés.

A Lyon, Food Traboule ambitionne de booster la cuisine

FOOD TRABOULE - 22 Rue du Bœuf, 69005 Lyon

• LOYALTY ACCOUNT

• The Counters
• How it works

How it works?

At Food Traboule, you sit where you want in the room of your choice. Two possibilities to order : you order and pay for your dishes at the table or directly at the counter. We'll let you know when it's ready, then you can pick them up. For ordering drinks, our waiters come to you and serve you directly at the table. For water, fountains of still or sparkling water are available free of charge on the ground floor and on the 1st floor so that you can help yourself right away. And when you're done, we take care of getting rid of everything.

On the Table

Scan the QR Code on your table and then order all the dishes you want in just a few clicks. You can connect to the Free Wifi Food Traboule. You pay in one go directly online. As soon as it's ready, we'll send you a notification. All you have to do is pick up your order at the various counters and enjoy!

At the counter

Order directly at the counter of your chosen restaurant: place your order, pay and take a pager. When it buzzes, it means your food is ready!

We reward loyalty! You will be given your own loyalty card when you place your first order. Simply show it every time you make a purchase, or log in to your customer account, to earn points and reap all the benefits!

You’re curious to know more, sign up and follow us!

Tu es curieux d’en savoir plus, inscris-toi et suis-nous !

Mentions Légales

Éditeur : TLA Food Traboule SAS au capital de 10856€ 22, rue du Bœuf – 69005 Lyon- FRANCE SIRET : 838 168 599 E-mail : contact(@) foodtraboule.com

Hébergeur : OVH – 2 rue Kellermann – 59100 Roubaix – FRANCE

Responsable de publication : Tabata Mey Téléphone : +33 4 87 91 55 33 Adresse email : contact(@) foodtraboule.com

Propriété intellectuelle : La structure, la mise en page, la charte graphique, les textes, la base de données, les images, les photos, les sons, les vidéos et tout autre élément composant ce site sont la propriété exclusive de la société TLA FOOD TRABOULE et sont protégés par le droit d’auteur. Toute représentation totale ou partielle de ce site, par quelque procédé que ce soit sans l’autorisation de la société TLA FOOD TRABOULE est interdite et constituerait un délit. Les marques, les noms commerciaux et les logos figurant sur ce site sont des marques déposées sauf mention contraire. Toute reproduction totale ou partielle des marques ou logos, effectuée à partir des éléments du site, sans l’autorisation expresse de la société TLA FOOD TRABOULE est donc interdit. Toute utilisation du logo FOOD TRABOULE doit faire l’objet d’une autorisation préalable de la part de TLA FOOD TRABOULE.

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Hundreds of traboules connect residential neighborhoods to bustling streets in Old Lyon. From more than 400 created, 50 are still open to the public.

What secrets lie beneath Lyon?

A labyrinth of corridors conceals a complicated past in France.

Tucked between Lyon’s old-town streets and its Croix-Rousse neighborhood, the traboules —a vast network of around 400 hidden corridors, passages, and stairwells—have borne witness to historic moments from the silk trade to French Resistance meetings in World War II.

Tour guide Veronique Destombes has lived in the city for over 30 years and knows just where to dip into discreet doors, to climb stairs, and venture down subtly marked traboules to explore the 50 pathways still open to the public. Each route has its own distinct pastel color and unique architectural element, such as towering staircases, vaulted ceilings, or detailed, Renaissance arches.

As we walk along Rue du Boeuf, Destombes weaves tales of how the canuts , or Lyonnaise silk workers, used the traboules to transport the fabrics across the city safely, avoiding rain and dirt. In the 1800s, the traboules played a key role during the Canut revolts—one of the first documented uprisings of Europe’s Industrial Revolution. Exploited silk workers used the walkways to sneak into the city center and take over the town. During World War II, the French Resistance used the network to evade the Nazis. Runners would slip into the clandestine passageways to avoid capture and could use the alleys’ double doors to share important messages without suspicion.

In love with Lyon? This nearby region may be your next travel obsession.

Many of the traboules are now on private property, used only by residents. In the 1990s, Lyon city officials agreed to pay for maintenance and restoration of traboules that residents keep open to the public from morning until evening.

Where to find traboules

With a bit of detective work, savvy travelers can find their own moments of quiet in the traboules spread across the city. In Old Lyon, entrances are marked with shield-shaped bronze plaques, while in Croix-Rousse, a lion’s head on a blue marker guides the way. Here are four traboules worth sleuthing for.

Traboule de la Cour des Voraces

A sanctuary to silk workers during the Canut revolts, Traboule de la Cour des Voraces preserves canut history with its famous six-floor stairway façade—one of the oldest in the city—and a memorial that reads: “In the Cour des Voraces, a hive of the silk industry, canuts fought for their living conditions and their dignity.” The historical passage begins at 9 Place Colbert and 14 bis montée Saint-Sébastien.

The Traboule de la Cour des Voraces, located in the Croix-Rousse, was one of the landmark traboules during the 19th-century Canut revolts, where hundreds of enraged silk workers gathered and marched.

La Longue Traboule

At 54 Rue Saint-Jean, search for the green door and an engraving reading “La Longue Traboule” to find the longest traboule in Old Lyon. Stretching to 27 Rue du Bœuf, the walkway crosses through five courtyards and tunnels under four buildings. It’s one of the few traboules still used daily by locals to navigate Old Lyon.

Traboule de la Tour Rose

Enter at 16 Rue du Bœuf to discover a rose-tinted watchtower, complete with spiraling staircase, while traversing the Traboule de la Tour Rose. The stairs are closed to the public, but the delicate colors of the courtyard and Renaissance-style windows of the tower create a picturesque scene.

Traboule de Maison Brunet

Connecting 10 Rue Rivet with 5 Place Rouville, and 12 Rue Rivet with 6 Place Rouville, this traboule leads travelers to Maison Brunet, a structure built with references to periods of time—365 windows (days in a year), 52 apartments (weeks in a year), seven floors (days in a week), and four entrances (seasons in a year). During the Canut revolt, soldiers would use the numerous windows to hurl fireballs at the national guard.

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• Lyon's Traboules

Uncover famous secret passages: the traboules of lyon

Updated 28 June 2023 by Leyla Alyanak

Have you heard of Lyon's secret passageways? Many are closed but some traboules of Lyon can still be visited... but quietly...

If you've ever been to Lyon, you've probably walked through a traboule at some point – possibly without even knowing.

Ready for your Lyon trip?

Here are some suggestions to make your visit even more enjoyable!

TOP LYON CITY TOURS  ➽   Vieux Lyon 4-hour Food Tasting Tour  - for inveterate foodies and gastronomes ➽   Discover Lyon Walking Tour - to explore the essence of the city

LYON DAY TRIPS ➽   Golden Stones Beaujolais - heart of the Golden Stone villages for wine lovers ➽   Northern Côtes du Rhône - meeting the winemakers ➽ Beaujolais and Pérouges - wine tasting and a medieval village visit

WHERE TO STAY IN LYON ➽   Villa Florentine  - stunning 5-star luxury overlooking the entire city ➽ Mi-Hotel Tour Rose - perfect apartments in historic Vieux Lyon ➽ Fourvière Hotel - elegant simplicity in a former cloister ➽ Hotel du Théatre - budget option in the heart of the classical district

Renting a car in Lyon? Compare prices here . Traveling here by train? Book your ticket here . To see the city, don't forget to book your Lyon City Card .

You may have pushed open a heavy door, driven by your innate curiosity, only to be surprised as you walked along dimly lit corridors above which people so obviously lived.

But then, doesn't every city have its secrets? It's just that some are more "secret" than others...

The origins of the traboules of Lyon

Where to find the traboules of Lyon

Vieux Lyon traboules

Traboules of croix-rousse hill, and finally, the traboules of the presqu'île, traboules throughout the centuries, resources to visit the city of lyon.

In case haven't heard of them, the traboules of Lyon are secret passageways that usually run through a building, connecting one street to the next, or through courtyards, whose exits have been sealed in history, or even stairways, which look like anything but a secret passage!

Much of Lyon's core is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains the vast majority of traboules, which are concentrated in Old Lyon (or Vieux Lyon), the former silk-weaving center of Croix-Rousse hill , and the Renaissance neighbourhood of the Presqu'île.

There appear to be some 400 traboules in Lyon Or 500. No one really seems to know and I've had city officials give me both figures.

There would seem to be some 200 or so in the Vieux-Lyon, around 160 in Croix-Rousse, and 130 on the Presqu'île. Sadly, though, only 40 or so are open to the public.

Some are signposted at the entrance, others don't even seem to have an entrance, and this unpredictability is part of their charm. 

The word traboule, we're told by historians, comes from the latin "trans-ambulare", or to move through, which makes sense when talking about a passageway.

For some reason the word is particular to Lyon, which is odd, considering plenty of other towns have their own passageways – Chambéry has allées , Nantes has cours , Marseille has traverses and Besançon has traiges . You'll find plenty more passages in  Villefranche-sur-Saône, Mâcon,  Saint-Étienne and Louhans.

And that's just the tip of the iceberg.

How to find the traboules of Lyon

Before you visit Lyon's traboules, you'll have to know where they are. You can find out in several ways:

• You can download an app to your iPhone (sadly not available for Android)
• You can take a guided Lyon traboules tour  with an expert guide for secrets and insider knowledge
• You can watch a video of the traboules (see the bottom of this story)
• You can follow a Lyon traboules map right after this section (they are divided by neighbourhoods)

The maps provided in the various sections below show many of the Lyon passageways.

The light green squares are those which "in theory" can be visited, whereas the orange ones are closed to the public. I say "in theory" because they are supposed to be open, but sometimes you'll find the doors locked.

At one point, the city bought up many of the properties surrounding the "traboules lyonnaises" and made them available as low-cost housing, but with strings attached. Residents had to agree to keep the traboule open to the public between 8 am and 7 pm.

While many residents do comply with the agreement, others are fed up with the steady stream of tourists who speak loudly, eat and laugh as they walk through, disturbing the peace.

The best traboules to visit in Lyon are in the Vieux Lyon, which has the most traboules and some of the best secret passageways.

As you can see from the map below, they are grouped closely together so if you have little time, this might be your best bet for traboule hunting.

The rue St-Jean is particularly bountiful. A few parallel streets closer to the river may seem to have more, but in my experience, many of these are often closed to the public, unless you visit them with a guide.

The key to the numbers on the map can be found on this site (explanations are in French but at least you can get the addresses). 

The longest traboule, 54 rue Saint-Jean

One of the most popular (and my favourite) is at 54 rue St-Jean. It also happens to be the Lyon's longest traboule.

It slices through several small courtyards and opens up onto the rue du Boeuf. If you turn right upon exiting, you'll soon find yourself outside the Food Traboule. Nothing to do with Lyon secret passages but an indoor food court I happen to love.

If you've eaten your fill of traditional Lyon food in a typical bouchon, this should be your next stop. It also serves local specialties, but with a modern twist.

Upstairs, you'll find the giant, aptly named "XXL Profiterolle". Either have one before lunch or share it because it is huge!

La Maison des Avocats, 60 rue St-Jean

You'll probably find this one without looking for it: it is a pink building with several stories of pink arcades on the rue St-Jean. 

The "house of lawyers" was built in the 14th century and was known as the "Ostel de la Croys", an auberge for local legal assistants. The auberge evolved and expanded upwards with the addition of several arcaded floors.

By the 19th century it was in decline, turned into rental apartments, and eventually it was scheduled for destruction, despite its listing as a historical monument (sadly, these things happen).

But an association dedicated to restoring Old Lyon stepped in and saved it. Parts were still razed, but what was once an internal patio surrounded by arcades is now open to the street for all to see and ornamented with a small public garden.

You can't miss the serene lion sculpture facing the street, although I'm still trying to ascertain its origins.

THE EMBLEM OF LYON IS A LION, BUT...

The word for lion, "lion" in French, is pronounced the same way as the city, Lyon.

So adopting the lion as the city's emblem would make sense. But that's not what happened at all.

The lion was adopted as the city's symbol nearly 1000 years ago, when it still went by the Roman name of Lugdunum. Nothing to do with our beloved feline. It was originally pictured as a white lion on a red background with its mouth open, but would evolve over the centuries, for example by including fleurs de lys.

Lions also have another connection with Lyon, as several actually lived here, offered as gifts to the city over the years. The last lion of Lyon lived in the majestic Parc de la Tête d'Or, where he died in 2021.

Today, Lyon's lions are the inanimate kind: statues in the city, the emblem of the Only Lyon tourist office, or even at the heart of the logo of the city's football club, the Olympique lyonnais.

La Tour Rose, 16 rue du Boeuf

This is another of Old Lyon's stunning internal courtyards that qualifies as a  traboule: la Tour Rose, also known as la Maison du Crible.

Just a word about the glorious pink spiral stairway that gives the tower its name: it wasn't always pink. Apparently the pink colour only surfaced in the 1970s.

It is part of a splendid private house dating back to the Middle Ages and a once-derelict traboule which has now been restored.

The complex has been turned into a prestigious rental accommodation a which patrons rave about ( you can book a suite here ). To get a good view of the tower, head into the traboule and look up, or visit the upper floor of the Food Traboule and gaze through its glass ceiling.

WANT TO EXPLORE VIEUX-LYON IN DEPTH?

➽   Lyon Highlights and Secrets Walking Tour

➽   Vieux Lyon 4-Hour Food Tasting Tour

➽  Free Walking Guided Tour of Lyon

➽  Private Walking Tour of Authentic Vieux-Lyon

The second largest concentration of Lyon underground tunnels is on Croix-Rousse, a low-lying hill in Lyon which was once home to the city's silk weavers.

Whether the traboules were designed to fetch water from below or transport bolts of silk without wetting them from the rain doesn't matter. The fact is that Croix-Rousse is riddled with traboules, except unlike the flat tunnels in Lyon Old Town, these take you to another level of the hill, in addition to opening up onto a different street.

(More details about the traboules Lyon plan at Croix-Rousse East and Croix-Rousse West  – again, you'll get the addresses but the explanations are in French.)

La Cour des Voraces

The Cour des Voraces (roughly translated as the Courtyard of the Voracious), is undoubtedly the most famous of the traboules Croix Rousse, although it looks nothing like the ones you've seen in the Old Town.

At first sight, this is a concrete stairway. But it does lead from one street to another, and from one level to another. In fact, it has three entrances: on Place Colbert, on Montée Saint-Sébastien and on Rue Imbert-Colomès.

It also happens to be Lyon's most famous traboule: it was the site of two notorious events. The first is the fabled Revolt of the Canuts, the 19th-century rebellion by silk workers, with a plaque commemorating the event on the wall of the traboule.

The other is the Nazi occupation of Lyon during World War II, when the traboule was used to help Resistance fighters escape or communicate with one another. (Lyon was a major backdrop to World War II so if you're interested by places related to this era, book a  private tour of the high points of the French Résistance  in Lyon). So yes, this Lyon tunnel may not look like one, but it most certainly is a true traboule.

THESE PRIVATE TOURS WILL DELVE INTO LYON'S WWII HISTORY:

➽   World War II and the Résistance

➽   Lyon and the Shoah

➽  Jewish Lyon

There are plenty of others, like the traboule that connects 5 rue Royale with 3 quai André-Lassagne. Its 17th-century stairwell was recently renovated and is protected as a historical monument. This one is actually a dual traboule, because you can follow a hallway and emerge in the Cour des Moirages, another Croix-Rousse traboule.

If you're a fan of historical stairways, then do visit the traboule that links  4 rue de Thou to 5 Petite rue des Feuillants. Interestingly, there are several traboules in Croix-Rousse with stairways at their heart.

For some reason, it is easier to get lost visiting the traboules of Croix-Rousse than in those of the Old Town – I'm not quite sure why, but they're not as well signposted and some of the entrances lack numbers, so a bit of map reading and sleuthing might be involved, but that's part of the fun!

If you'd like to get to know Croix-Rousse better:

I have to confess I've never visited these traboules. I've been so keen to explore the ones in the Old Town and in Croix-Rousse that I've utterly neglected the Presqu'île, an otherwise gorgeous part of town.

This is the heart of the downtown district, and also the site of many of Lyon's stunning outdoor murals .

I promise to explore them on one of my monthly trips to Lyon so I'll definitely come back and report.

The traboules don't all date from the same period, nor did they serve the same purpose in each time period.

Lyon hidden passageways were first built in the 4th century

Lyon was still called Lugdunum when the first traboules began appearing.

Lyon's streets had been built parallel to the city's two rivers, but getting to one of the rivers was no easy task, since the buildings were in the way.

Residents of Croix-Rousse hill who needed water, whether for the home or for industry, had to make their way down to one of the many wells located in the Old Town. Covered passages began to appear, making it easier to head straight downhill than along small, winding streets. 

Those traboules that remain today were built far later...

They expanded in the 19th century 

Traboules continued being built during the Renaissance, especially those in the Old Town, but they experienced a rapid spurt of growth during the 19th century, as the silk trade expanded and Lyon became its European center.

An increasing number of silk workers gathered on Croix-Rousse, as many as 90,000 at one point, and the traboules evolved to serve them: they became convenient shortcuts for workers carrying their heavy silk bolts down from the workshops to the stylish businesses below (and also helped keep the silk dry).

In 1831, the Canuts, as the silk workers were called, rebelled against their poor working conditions in one of history's first industrial uprisings, and this happened right in the Cour des Voraces. The Canuts, highly familiar with the city's traboule network, used them to reach the town below and took control. Their victory was short live and the rebellions eventually suppressed with great force.

They remained important during World War II

During World War II, Lyon was a Nazi stronghold (initially a part of the Free Zone, the Nazis eventually invaded all of France in 1942) and Gestapo headquarters, but was also the center of the southeastern France Résistance.

This maze of passageways also played an important role during the war: the traboules were used to escape the Nazis or to meet other rebels unnoticed. The Germans would eventually become familiar with them but initially, they were well-kept Lyonnais secrets.

Some of them became shabby and neglected and this is why, in the 1990s, the city agreed to subsidize their restoration in exchange for public visiting privileges. In 1998 the entire historic site of the city of Lyon came under UNESCO protection, and the traboules, being part of this heritage, can now rest assured they will probably survive yet another few centuries.

➽   If you need to get around Lyon, the  Lyon City Pass  is really useful if you want to save time and money: it covers all public transportation, as well as entrance to most monuments and sites.

You won't need a car in Lyon – in fact, you're better off with one and should rely on its excellent public transportation system .

BUT - if you want to take some day trips from Lyon , you will definitely need one and can check what's available here .

If you plan to rent a car, consider visiting Lyon on foot and picking up your car at the airport. You can catch the Rhonexpress bus from the Part-Dieu train station. Check the timetables here .

Where to stay in Lyon

Traboules of lyon: faq.

How many traboules are in Lyon?

No one knows exactly, but between 400-500. However, only about 10% of them are open to the public.

What is a traboules in English?

A traboule is a passageway found in Lyon, France. Usually covered and often hidden, these were once used by silk workers to keep their bolts of silk dry from the rain. They were also used to ferry water up from the river to the hills of Croix-Rousse.

What is Lyon famous for?

Lyon is famous for its traboules, or secret passageways, but also for its 150  monumental murals, its reputation as France's capital of gastronomy, and its Roman heritage.

Before you go...

Want to know even more about Lyon? Here are a few stories to help you delve into the city:

• Weird, Whimsical And Wonderful Facts About Lyon
• Irresistible Things to Do in Lyon
• Fourviere Hill: Basilica, Ruins, And The Best View Of Lyon

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Bonjour! I’m Leyla! I was born in Paris and now live in the bucolic mountain foothills of Eastern France between Lyon and Annecy. 

I'm rediscovering my own back yard after years of living abroad in Canada, Spain and Switzerland as a journalist and a diplomat － and I'm loving every minute.

Passionate about history and culture, I’ve created Offbeat France to seek out my country’s mysteries and legends, less-traveled destinations, along with plenty of food stops and many castles － I am French, after all!

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40 Facts About Elektrostal

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 19 May 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes , offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

Elektrostal's fascinating history, vibrant culture, and promising future make it a city worth exploring. For more captivating facts about cities around the world, discover the unique characteristics that define each city . Uncover the hidden gems of Moscow Oblast through our in-depth look at Kolomna. Lastly, dive into the rich industrial heritage of Teesside, a thriving industrial center with its own story to tell.

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Things to Do in Valuyevo, Russia - Valuyevo Attractions

Things to do in valuyevo.

• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Manor Valuevo

2. Church of the Intercession of the Holy Virgin