Jardin des Plantes and Panorama Over Fourvière

Why is it significant?

Find a shaded bench along the terraced walkways of the Jardin des Plantes, an elevated park stepped into the western slope of the Croix-Rousse hill.

Key Facts

Open the walk

Find a shaded bench along the terraced walkways of the Jardin des Plantes, an elevated park stepped into the western slope of the Croix-Rousse hill. Established in the late eighteenth century by naturalist and physician Jean-Emmanuel Gilibert on the confiscated grounds of the ancient convent of La Déserte, this park served as the first official botanical garden of the City of Lyon until its collections were transferred across the Rhône to the Parc de la Tête d'Or in 1857. Although its primary scientific role moved eastward, the garden still nurtures magnificent century-old specimen trees, including exotic ginkgo bilobas, Japanese pagoda trees, and manicured conifers that cast welcome shade on hot summer afternoons. The upper belvedere terrace reveals a breathtaking panoramic vista looking directly across the Saône gorge toward the opposite Fourvière ridge, framing the white silhouette of the basilica and the Tour Métallique against the western sky. The peaceful, contemplative atmosphere invites quiet reflection on the city's unique geography. Rustling leaves catch the gentle hillside breeze.

Contemplate the dramatic frontal vista of Fourvière Hill across the valley: the deep divide of the Saône River highlights Lyon's profound urban duality between the mystical hill of churches and convents and this industrious hill of textile manufacturers.

In this very botanical garden, the first specialized classes in botanical drawing and flower painting were offered to students of the École des Beaux-Arts, training generations of floral pattern designers whose silk motifs conquered royal courts worldwide.

Notice the sturdy stone retaining walls supporting the terraces: these heavy stone foundations were originally built by the Poor Clare nuns of La Déserte convent, founded here in 1296 by Archbishop Henri de Villars.

Walk eastward through the upper paths to join the picturesque stone pavement of Montée de la Grande-Côte.