Here’s our monthly look back at the history of our beloved city of Lyon. After June’s retrospective, we turn the spotlight on July. And don’t think that just because it’ s summer, nothing’s happening… Quite the contrary. Ready to take a trip back in time?
July 1, 1831, inaugural performance at the Grand Théâtre de Lyon
That was 193 years ago… This neo-classical building opened its doors in July 1831, following a fire in 1826 that destroyed the original architecture designed by Soufflot himself. It wasn’t until 1993 that Jean Nouvel added his personal touch, giving the Grand Théâtre de Lyon – now the Opéra de Lyon – the appearance we know today.
July 3, 1977, Lyon celebrates with jousts!
Lyon and jousting, a love affair that goes back almost 1,000 years! As far back as we can remember, jousting was first celebrated in the capital of the Gauls in 1171, according to the oldest post-Latin document. Since then, more than one must have fallen into the Rhône or Saône rivers!
July 1, 1987, closure of the Tobacco Factory
Another mythical site in our beloved city, the Manufacture des Tabacs de Lyon reached an historic turning point in 1987, when its industrial activity ceased. At its peak, 7 million cigarettes were produced here every day, including the famous “troupes” for the army and the “bleues” for rolling tobacco.
July 29, 1997, David Bowie concert at the Théâtre Romain de Fourvière
That evening, the iconoclastic David Bowie opened his concert alone on guitar, even though his latest techno-rock album was anything but acoustic. Like a nose-thumbing gesture, or a reminder of his roots… The 4,500 lucky concert-goers heard him perform The Man Who Sold the World, Under Pressure and Dead Man Walking.
July 1, 2003, Johnny’s anniversary concert at Gerland
The Taulier in the arena! In 2003, our national Johnny embarked on a tour to celebrate his 60th birthday, stopping off in Lyon of course, in front of an audience of 38,000. We’ll remember in particular his renditions of Quelque chose de Tennessee, Ma Gueule and Gabrielle… We miss the legend Johnny!
July 20 2005, Lyon celebrates the Quai des Guinguettes
In July 2005, guinguettes took center stage in Lyon. With over a million visitors expected, no fewer than 31 guinguettes are set up along the banks of the Rhône. Whether you’re looking for a drink, a tango or a sun lounger, the ten-day Quai des Guinguettes is THE summer event in Lyon.
July 2, 2025, Lyon in the midst of a historic heatwave
It was too hot to forget already! This early summer in Lyon will go down in history. Between OL’s announced relegation to Ligue 2 and a persistent heatwave, the city was very hot. Fortunately, just as for the OL, a favourable outcome came at the end of this extreme period, with the arrival of milder temperatures for the start of the vacations.