Eglise catholique Saint PaulA rare example of a Romanesque church in Lyons
1 Place Gerson
Lyon,
69005
Neighborhood: Old Lyons
Nearest Train: métro: Vieux Lyon, Hôtel de VillePhone: +33 4 7828 3445
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One of the oldest churches in Lyon (it appears in a 9th century text by Bishop Leidrade), the Romanesque architecture of Saint Paul matches the abbey church of Saint-Martin d'Ainay (cf. Saint Martin d'Ainay). In the 19th century the revival of interest in medieval art prompted several neo-Gothic additions (spire, west portal), but the church thankfully keeps its Romanesque coherence. The octagonal tower at the transept crossing and the chapels near to the apse have also kept their arched openings decorated with small columns. The west steeple dates from the 15th century. The nave and the lower sides of the church have a surprising Romano-Gothic look. For the most part, the Romanesque walls were replaced in order to make more space and allow more light in - notably with the addition of rib vaults (a characteristic of what is called Gothic architecture). In the church of Saint Paul the Romanesque walls were kept but spiced up with Gothic innovations - this is the particular architectural feature of the church. The dome situated at the transept crossing is remarkable because it consists of two superimposed octagons. Services are held at 6:30p M-F and 10a & 11:30a Su.NYC Best Hotel Deals: 50% Savings In New York! Experience New York At It's Finest!JustClickLocal.comAlaska – it’s HOT! Get a FREE Official Alaska Travel Guide today.TravelAlaska.comFour Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara: Stay two nights, and receive the 3rd night FREE! www.SantaBarbaraCa.com/Partners