The City Library Fresco is one of Lyon's most famous murals, transforming a six-story building into a vast trompe-l'œil library. Located near the banks of the Saône and the booksellers' market, the artwork has become a symbol of Lyon's literary heritage thanks to its hundreds of references to authors and works linked to the city.
A monumental open-air library
The mural covers approximately 400 square meters and depicts bookshelves filled with books painted with remarkable realism. It features nearly 500 literary references, mixing French classics, poetry, detective novels, plays, and comic books, in a deliberately chaotic arrangement designed to evoke a truly living library.
Lyon's cultural heritage
Created in 1998 by the Lyon collective CityCreation, The mural pays tribute to authors who lived, worked, or wrote in Lyon, such as Rabelais, Louise Labé, Voltaire Or Frederic Dard. The artwork engages in direct dialogue with the booksellers located at the foot of the Quai de la Pêcherie and illustrates the Lyon tradition of monumental painted walls.
Visitor experience
Accessible free of charge day and night, the mural can be admired both from afar to appreciate its architectural effect and up close to read the titles and quotes hidden within the shelves. The nighttime lighting enhances the illusion of depth and makes it a popular stop on Lyon's urban art trails, alongside the Mur des Canuts (Silk Weavers' Wall) and the Fresque des Lyonnais (Lyonnais Fresco).
Access and environment
The mural is located at the corner of Rue de la Platière and Quai de la Pêcherie, in Lyon's 1st arrondissement, a few minutes' walk from the station. City Hall – Louis Pradel. The area is lively with its riverside bookshops, cafes and promenades along the Saône, making it a frequent stop when visiting Lyon's historic centre.
360° tour
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