Croix-Rousse district

You’re standing on the Croix-Rousse plateau, the district’s highest point, also known as the “worker’s hill.”. This non-conventional area was home to the “canuts” silk workers, who transformed the industry into a major force, propelling the city to the rank of France’s leading industrial hub in the early 19th century. Built in 1812 on this hill famous for its fresh air, the district was designed from the outset to house weaving mills and to become Lyon’s major center for silk. A material which was increasingly sought after by the aristocracy. Today it continues to thrive as a vibrant district. Modernized while retaining its essence, attracting the interest of visitors and locals alike, it is now a prime area to live in.  Croix-Rousse also benefits from excellent access to the current transportation network. But another, more mysterious network lies here, invisible beneath your feet: the Fantasques network. Authentic underground tunnels that cross Croix Rousse at a depth of 30 meters. The network is made up of a main backbone and 34 side tunnels that form a fishbone structure. Military galleries, Templar storehouses, Gallo-Roman tunnels… Over time, several theories have emerged, but to this day none has been able to explain the function of these galleries.  “Lyon’s undergrounds” remain a great mystery!