As part of the European Heritage Days 2026, Lyon invites residents and visitors to discover ‘Murmurations,’ a captivating art installation by artist Isabelle Daëron. Located at the recently renovated Esplanade Nelson Mandela, this artwork delves into the fascinating world of collective bird movements and their connection to Lyon’s unique ecological corridor.
What is ‘Murmurations’?
‘Murmurations’ refers to the mesmerizing collective movements of certain birds in the sky. Lyon, situated within the Rhône Valley, serves as a crucial continental ecological corridor, linking Northern Europe to the Sahelian zones. This means the city experiences regular seasonal migratory flows, with some birds making brief stops within its urban landscape. The Nelson Mandela Park, where the artwork is situated, is an integral part of this ecological network.
The Art Installation: A Glimpse into Suspended Movement
Isabelle Daëron’s artwork consists of two striking sculptures strategically placed on either side of the TB12 tram lines. At their apex, various bird figures are depicted in different flight positions. Each figure is distinct and subtly altered, creating an impression of movement suspended in time. The curved masts, their surface effects, and the vibrant coloring further enhance this sense of floating and dynamism.
Guided Tours: Unveiling the Project’s Genesis
Visitors are invited to participate in guided tours that will provide an in-depth presentation of the artwork. These tours will cover the genesis of the project and explain how the installation was conceived in relation to its specific site. It’s a unique opportunity to understand the artistic vision behind ‘Murmurations’ and its profound connection to Lyon’s natural environment. The artwork was created for @sytral_mobilites in 2026.
Event Details and Schedule
The guided tours for ‘Murmurations’ will take place on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the Esplanade Nelson Mandela, Lyon (69003). Please note the following schedule:
- 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM
- 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Important: Each time slot is limited to 20 people to ensure an intimate and informative experience. Early arrival or pre-registration is recommended.
Location Information
The Esplanade Nelson Mandela has recently undergone renovation to accommodate the new BHNS bus lines. As part of these transformations, Isabelle Daëron envisioned an artwork that pays homage to the bird flows traversing Lyon’s skies.
Address: Esplanade Nelson Mandela; 128 Avenue Félix Faure, 69003 Lyon
European Heritage Days 2026 in Lyon
This event is a highlight of the European Heritage Days 2026, focusing on guided tours and the rich heritage of Lyon. For more information on other events happening during this period, please refer to the official European Heritage Days website.
Additional Practical Information
How to Get There:
The Esplanade Nelson Mandela is easily accessible by public transport. Please check local transport schedules for the most convenient route.
Accessibility:
For information regarding accessibility for persons with reduced mobility, please contact the event organizers prior to your visit.
What to Bring:
Comfortable shoes are recommended as the tour involves some walking. You may also wish to bring water, especially if the weather is warm.
Contact Information:
For any inquiries regarding the ‘Murmurations’ event or European Heritage Days 2026 in Lyon, please refer to the official event website or the Ministry of Culture and Communication.
Other Heritage Day Events in Lyon:
While visiting ‘Murmurations,’ consider exploring other fascinating events taking place during the European Heritage Days in Lyon:
- From my point of view: Tuesday, September 1 to Wednesday, September 30, 2026
- Demonstration workshops of the trades and know-how of the lace workshop of the Mobilier National du Puy-en-Velay: Saturday, September 19 to Sunday, September 20, 2026
- Walk following the route of the Roman aqueduct of Gier: Sunday, September 20, 2026
- Guided tour of the Tuilerie des Lys: Saturday, September 19, 2026
- Guided tour of the Ferme de Clastre: Saturday, September 19 to Sunday, September 20, 2026
- Guided tour of Parc Laussedat: Saturday, September 19, 2026
- From light to artificial intelligence: Ajoux in the spotlight…: Saturday, September 19 to Sunday, September 20, 2026
- Open house at Catherine Mettetal, textile designer & eco-responsible editor: Saturday, September 19 to Sunday, September 20, 2026
- Salamander fountain and text by the quarryman Louis Ligneux: Friday, September 18 to Sunday, September 20, 2026
- Exhibition of restored 17th century Taulignan cadastres: Friday, September 18 to Sunday, September 20, 2026
- Guided tour of the Bataillots wash house: Sunday, September 20, 2026
- Visit St Jean-Baptiste Church: Saturday, September 19 to Sunday, September 20, 2026
- Guided tours of the Maison-Théâtre de Machy and its domain: Sunday, September 20, 2026
- Heritage visit of Corbel 73160: Sunday, September 20, 2026
- Co-cathedral Notre-Dame: Discovery of the restoration site: Saturday, September 19 to Sunday, September 20, 2026
- Discovery of heritage preservation and restoration illustrated by a photographic exhibition: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with art, nature, and the rich heritage of Lyon during the European Heritage Days 2026!
Source: https://www.leparisien.fr/etudiant/sortir/lyon/eve-jep-murmurations/
