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Car Hire in Lyon
Lyon
Standing at the junction of the Rhone and the Saone, Lyon, with a population of 400,000, is the third largest city in France. While textile manufacturing is an important industry, Lyon is also a leader in publishing and banking, and is also one of the silk capitals of the world. The Musee des Tissus houses some of the finest fabrics made in Lyon from the 18th century to the present day; look for the partridge motif brocade made for Marie Antoinette's bedchamber at Versailles. The famous Lumiere family once lived in Lyon, and it was here that they founded a factory for producing photographic plates and chemicals. Their work is profiled at l'Institut & Musee Lumiere, a living museum of cinema. A relaxed and friendly city, Lyon has skyscrapers and parks in full bloom, and a nightlife generated by the young. It is also a centre of fashion - the best shops are located on the Rue Emile Zola, Rue de President Edouard Herriot and Place Kleber. The cathedral of Primatiale St Jean was built between the 12th and 15th centiuries. Points of interest are the exceptional stained-glass windows and the Gothic chapel of the Bourbons. The 16th century clock announces the hour with a rooster crowing and angels heralding the event. For something different during a summer evening, try one of the events of Les Nuits de Fourviere, a series of recitals, concerts and plays presented under lights at the ruins of Lyon's Roman theatres.