Grab your coat, leave a note and run away with me ~ Unknown

A wintertime trip has taken us across the Atlantic to Lyon, France. The second largest city in France, Lyon is located partway between Paris and Marseille. It is a lovely French destination full of beautiful architecture, secret passageways, local cuisine, shops and a large city park.

Instead of capturing all the typical highlights, this is a curated view of Lyon, a photographic essay of the city experience in the wintertime. Highlights vary from cityscapes to little details from our perspective framed in the viewfinder. It is the first of a four part series, the story about the colour and texture of Lyon’s cityscape from a personal frame of reference.

Lyon has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical and architectural landmarks. The texture of the historic materials and patina of the city tell stories from the past. Buildings and church exteriors are adorned with exquisite detail and historic sculptures. Furthermore, stained glass windows, gold leaf embellishments, marble work, and colored mosaics richly decorate the interiors. Bursts of vibrant and colourful buildings and painted details in the neighbourhoods are captivating even on a grey day. Elegant ironwork and metal details of the windows and balconies of old apartment buildings add an element of whimsy when walking down the sidewalks. Even the street lanterns lining the cobblestone streets are picturesque. Visions of stunning pastries in the upscale market, Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, must be mentioned as well. Woven rattan classic French bistro chairs scattered amongst tables in front of eateries, despite the frosty temperatures, showcase the flavor of Lyon. It is both alluring and fascinating to walk through the traboules and narrow passageways used by silk merchants in the silk district on the slopes of La Croix-Rousse.

Hope you have enjoyed this photographic escape and a light read about the city and will return next week to explore again!

Links to Wintertime in Lovely Lyon, France Series:

Wintertime in Lovely Lyon, France ~ Part Two

Wintertime in Lovely Lyon, France ~ Part Three

Wintertime in Lovely Lyon, France ~ Part Four

I always wonder what my life would be like in French.

 Dabbling in living with a little translation :: TRADUIRE LA VIE

Photographic Credit: VinnyBoy Images 01, 12, 17