The Traboules are a unique feature of the cities of Lyon, Villefranche-sur-Saône, and also present in other towns in the region of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France.
Traboules are passageways that were originally used by silk workers, also known as "canuts", to transport their goods. They're a series of interconnected corridors that run through buildings and courtyards, allowing a way to get from one street to another. In essence, they are shortcuts through the city, originally used to protect the silk and other goods from inclement weather.
The word "traboule" comes from the Latin "trans-ambulare", which means "to pass through". The existence of the Traboules dates back to the 4th century, and they are particularly numerous in the Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) area, which is composed of three districts: Saint-Paul, Saint-Jean, and Saint-Georges.
During the Second World War, the Traboules were used by the Resistance as safe and discreet routes for people and information. This historical aspect further adds to their intrigue and charm. Today, there are some 500 traboules in Lyon.
Visiting the Traboules is a unique experience as they provide a glimpse into Lyon's history and architecture. However, since many are located within residential buildings, respect for residents' privacy is crucial.
Many of the Traboules are open to the public, but some are private or only open on special occasions such as heritage days. It's recommended to take a guided tour or get a map to find them, as they can be hard to locate for those unfamiliar with the city.
The sign read “Please respect the tranquility of the inhabitants of this traboule by crossing it in silence”.
Where are they?
Finding a traboule is a challenge, since they are hidden. Some are more visible than others. Here is alink to a Wikiêdia page with most of the addresses of the Traboules in Lyon. The page is in French only, but the addresses are easily visible for all to understand:
However, the easiest way of discovering the traboules and learning more about them is to hire a guide. Check with the local Tourist Office.