Urban Exploration - Loyasse Fort

We received photos from a traveler and compiled them into a historical summary.

Fort Loyasse is a former fortification of Lyon, perched on the heights of Fourvière. When you find yourself visiting a dentist in Lyon (and some of you know just how long that particular torment occupied my time!!), you realize that the city’s heights are entirely encircled by fortifications—some still functional, others abandoned. Or, if not functional, at least maintained in good condition.

Thus, Loyasse—with its "brand new" cemetery for the wealthy—also has its fort. Built between 1836 and 1840, it was part of the "enceinte de la Py," much like Fort de Vaise. Between the walls of the cemetery and those of the fort, with their similar heights and styles, it is easy to get them confused. The area is very steep, with the Rue de l’Observance winding between austere stone walls.

An Obsolete Sentinel
The bastion quickly proved dysfunctional because it was too small. Furthermore, technical advancements in artillery rendered it obsolete; as the range of cannons gradually increased, the fort became ill-suited for its purpose.

During World War II, the site was occupied by the Germans. Demilitarization followed in 1947. Because this happened so long ago, the site has become a sanctuary of nature in the heart of the city—a sector that is already quite green. In 1949, the facility became the property of the City of Lyon.

Two Worlds Apart
The fort is already well-documented in terms of its military and historical data, so I am focusing purely on the "urbex" aspect. I specifically wanted to go there in the late evening, at the end of the day, to catch the sunbeams as they fleetingly enter the fortification. That alone is a fairy-tale sight. In this place, you can sharply hear the voices of people just a few steps away. They are outside, I am inside—two worlds in opposition, unable to meet.

It is worth noting that the premises have been heavily tagged. While I usually find such vandalism unpleasant, here it creates a chaotic cacophony of colors that I am pleased to present to you. It is a rare occurrence, but it creates a beautiful effect and gives the place a truly unique identity.