Just like the secrets of Île Barbe, its history is fascinating. Though too often overlooked, this site was nevertheless the residence of several monarchs, cardinals, and other prominent figures between the 15th and 17th centuries. Marie de’ Medici, Louis XIII, Anne of Austria, and even the famous Cardinal Richelieu…they’ve all been there! Today, its location makes it truly exceptional. A fortified castle right in the heart of the city—that’s unheard of, but in Lyon, nothing is impossible!
The Château de la Motte and Its History
Let’s step inside the Château de la Motte as if into a book by Alexandre Dumas. In the height of the swashbuckling era, Lyon wasn’t quite what it is today, but the castle already stood on its mound, occupying a strategic position to survey the surrounding area—particularly the Alps and the Rhône Valley.
Over the centuries, the castle belonged to several prominent families and welcomed the most influential figures of the time. For example, we learn that King Henry II, son of Francis I, stayed there in 1556 to receive a sword blessed by the pope, and that Anne of Austria, Louis XIII, and Richelieu stayed there following a campaign led by the king in Montpellier.
A castle set to rise from the ashes
In the 19th century, the castle was incorporated into the fortifications surrounding Lyon and was converted into military barracks for many years. Located in the heart of the 7th arrondissement, the site was purchased by the Lyon metropolitan area in 2007 with the aim of turning it into an urban park. It wasn’t until 2013 that Blandan Park opened, offering its 17 hectares of walking paths to the people of Lyon. The castle, meanwhile, was left to fall into disrepair. Its condition deteriorated severely until 2022, when severe weather dealt the final blow. The roof collapsed, and the walls—despite being supported by metal struts—could no longer hold. It was time to take the bull by the horns and properly renovate the site.
Since 2024, a major renovation project has been underway to breathe new life into the castle. It’s a risky endeavor given its deplorable condition, but it’s well worth the effort. The plan? To transform the castle into a living space and event venue with an adjoining hotel and restaurant. The project is scheduled for completion in 2027… After having hosted some of history’s most illustrious figures, Château de la Motte will reopen its doors to write a new chapter in its history.
