The Saint-Nizier Church (Église Saint-Nizier) is a historical church located in Lyon, France.
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The church takes its name from Saint Nicetius (Saint Nizier in French), who was the Bishop of Lyon from 553 to 573. It is situated in the heart of the city's peninsula (Presqu'ile) and the current building dates largely from the 14th to 15th centuries, although parts of it are older.
The church is a significant example of the Flamboyant Gothic architectural style, particularly in the design of its facade. However, its interior reveals the remnants of the original Romanesque church, which provides a fascinating architectural contrast.
Despite having a rather troubled history, including periods of neglect and damage during the French Revolution, the church has retained much of its historical charm and has been a central part of Lyon's religious and cultural life. One of the key features of the church is its organ, built in 1888 by Cavaillé-Coll and later restored.
Additionally, the church is significant for being the site of a protest by sex workers in 1975. This event, known as the occupation of the Saint-Nizier Church by the Lyon prostitutes, was a turning point in the movement for the rights of sex workers in France.
The church has a traditional cruciform layout with a nave, two aisles, and a transept. The choir, or chancel, is surrounded by an ambulatory, a semicircular aisle that allows visitors to walk around the main altar.
As you walk through the church, you might notice the beautiful stained glass windows. Some of these date back to the 19th century and were created during a period of restoration. The windows depict various biblical scenes and figures.
One of the main features inside the church is its organ. The current organ was built by the famous organ maker Aristide Cavaillé-Coll in 1888, and it's a remarkable example of 19th-century French organ building.
You can also find various chapels inside the church, each dedicated to different saints. These chapels often have their own unique artwork and statuary.
Saint-Nizier Church was not only an active place of worship but also a tourist attraction, and was part of Lyon's UNESCO World Heritage site.
Click here to access the church’s website (in French only)