On the waterfront

The Saône and the Rhône: sources of wealth and the beating heart of the city

Over the centuries, Lyon has lived side by side with its waterways, using them for fishing, transport, swimming, washing, playing, relaxing... The possibilities are endless. The river and its tributary have allowed trade and prosperity to flourish.

From mastering to over-exploiting these two forces of nature

Living so close to the water is not without risk. In winter and summer alike, these natural living forces dry out, flood, rumble, resist, destroy. Not the easiest of conditions for crossing, navigating, and expanding a city, and yet...

During the 19th century, thanks to technological advances, their fury and power were tamed and channelled. However, this exploitation led to a severe degradation of the waterways. Living so close to humans is not so peaceful…

Reestablishing a balance between humans and nature

Today, the Rhône and the Saone have been tamed. The people of Lyon have urbanised, navigated, tapped, and produced energy from the water. However, this intense use has led to a deterioration in the watercourses, and the damage - both environmental and social - runs deep.

Over the last 50 years, local and national initiatives aimed at restoring and preserving these natural resources have been working towards a better balance between the city and nature, and showing us the way...

An original story, the common thread running through the exhibition, guides children and accompanying adults through 3 listening stations located throughout the exhibition.

This poetic and mysterious tale was written by Florence Desnouveaux, a passionate and nationally acclaimed author: while playing on a wreck found on the banks of the Rhône, two children, Frérot and Sœurette, deliver a character, the "spirit of the river". This encounter takes them on a journey through the history of these waters. They become allies in saving the river's life.

To raise awareness of ecological issues among tomorrow's citizens from an early age, the exhibition's scenography has been specially designed for children aged 5 and over, with a playful, dreamlike journey punctuated by observation and manipulation games.