📍 25 Rue Burdeau, 69001 Lyon, Lyon
💛 Why we love it
Because it's the most "pop" and refreshing staircase in Lyon! Once dark and somewhat neglected, this passageway has been transformed into an open-air work of art thanks to the artist Wenc. We love the magical optical illusion: when you look down at the steps, you see a huge blue and white geometric mural, but as soon as you climb, the paint "disappears" to reveal the stone. It's the perfect spot to add a splash of color to your walk (and your Instagram feed).

This public space connects Rue René-Leynaud to Rue Burdeau via a steep staircase and constitutes an emblematic place in the topography of Lyon.

History and architecture

Created in the 19th century, the passageway owes its name to Dr. Mermet, a Lyon city councilor around 1830, whose home provided access to this traboule, a typical feature of the neighborhood. It exemplifies the network of pedestrian passages connecting the sloping alleyways and offering a glimpse into Lyon's architectural heritage.

An artistic transformation

In 2019, the passageway was completely reinvented thanks to an intervention by the Belgian artist WENC, produced in partnership with the association Capuchin Quarter and the collective Overlay, promoter of urban art. The staircase has thus been transformed into a colorful mural, turning the climb into a living and participatory work of art.

A place for walking and culture

The Passage Mermet attracts locals and visitors alike today thanks to its dual identity: a historical space and an open-air gallery. Free and accessible at all times, it offers an immersive experience blending heritage and contemporary art, contributing to the cultural renown of the Croix-Rousse district.

Situation

  • Address: 25 rue Burdeau, 69001 Lyon, France

  • Access: from Rue René-Leynaud via a vaulted entrance typical of Lyon's traboules.

📍 Where is this place located?

🔍 It's being talked about on the web
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Pierre Bossan

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