Paris, August 28, 2026 – The iconic Gare de Lyon in Paris is inviting the public to an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at its extensive restoration during the European Heritage Days on September 19 and 20, 2026. This unique opportunity will allow visitors to explore the historic station, including its famous clock tower, and meet the skilled artisans working on its facade.
Gare de Lyon: A Historic Landmark Undergoing Restoration
Gare de Lyon, a designated historical monument, is currently undergoing a significant restoration project. The main facade, designed by architect Marius Toudoire for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, is being meticulously restored to its original appearance. This ambitious undertaking, led by SNCF Gares & Connexions, is expected to conclude by mid-2027.
Jérémy Lerouyer, project director at SNCF Gares & Connexions, emphasized that this is not merely a restoration but a “restitution” project. “Some architectural elements disappeared in the late 1940s, notably decorative zinc crests and a monumental coat of arms. At the end of the Second World War, SNCF did not have the financial, material, or human resources to undertake such restorations, with priority given to the reconstruction of stations,” Lerouyer explained.
These missing elements will be reinstated thanks to extensive archival research and the expertise of Denis Redoutey, a historian specializing in railway heritage.
The Grand Clock Tower: A Glimpse into the Past
A highlight of the European Heritage Days program is the guided tour of the Gare de Lyon clock tower. Dominating Place Louis-Armand for 125 years, this 67-meter-high belfry houses a clock with dials measuring 6.5 meters in diameter. Visitors will have the rare chance to climb its 370 steps to the summit, 61 meters high, and discover documents displayed on each floor revealing the secrets of what was, in 1900, the second-largest clock in the world.
Participation in the clock tower tour is limited to 17 people per slot, and advance booking is mandatory via patrimoine.sncf.com. Registration opens on September 3 at 12:00 PM. Tours will run from 9:00 AM to 6:45 PM on both Saturday, September 19, and Sunday, September 20, 2026.
Meeting the Artisans Behind the Restoration
An exceptional event will take place on Saturday, September 19, on the main forecourt of the station. Visitors can meet the teams responsible for the project and the artisans currently working behind a monumental 10-story tarpaulin. These include stone carvers, slaters, and mosaicists, many of whom are, or have been, “compagnons du devoir et du tour de France” (members of a traditional French guild of craftsmen), some even having worked on the restoration of Notre-Dame de Paris.
Coralie Buchart, operations manager for AREP, highlighted that “the monumental sculptures and bas-reliefs on the facade illustrate the industrial revolution, its technological advancements in transport, and the theme of travel in an ‘Art Nouveau’ style that uses the repertoire of traditional iconography and symbolism.”
Access to the artisan stand is limited to 20 people per 15-minute slot, with the total visit lasting 30 minutes. This event is free and does not require reservations, running from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturday, September 19, 2026.
The Train Bleu: A Belle Époque Gem
While exploring the station, visitors are encouraged to stop by Le Train Bleu, formerly known as Le Buffet de la Gare. This restaurant, classified as a historical monument, has been enchanting guests since its creation in 1901, offering a glimpse into Belle Époque Paris.
The European Heritage Days at Gare de Lyon promise to be a captivating experience for railway enthusiasts and heritage lovers alike, offering a unique perspective on the restoration of this magnificent Parisian landmark.
Source: https://www.sortiraparis.com/actualites/journees-du-patrimoine/articles/197012-plongez-dans-les-coulisses-de-la-restauration-de-la-gare-de-lyon-pour-les-journees-du-patrimoine-2026
