Lyon Firefighters' Museum
Founded in 1966 by the head of Lyon's fire brigade, this museum has been housed since 1971 in the La Duchère district, on the heights of the 9th arrondissement. The firefighters' efforts built, preserved and restored a collection of 160 vehicles and more than 3,000 pieces of equipment, from the modern to the contemporary era. Classified a Musée de France in 2005, the collection has belonged since 2009 to the social and cultural committee of the Rhône fire and rescue service (SDIS). An ideal visit for families and anyone passionate about engines and the history of rescue.
A collection born of firefighters' passion
The collection was assembled through the dedication of the firefighters themselves, who gathered, preserved and restored 160 vehicles and more than 3,000 pieces of equipment. The items span a broad period, from the modern to the contemporary era, telling the story of how rescue means evolved. This work of collecting and restoring gives the museum a particular authenticity: each engine has a story. The whole was classified a Musée de France in 2005, recognising the collection's heritage value.
From 1966 to La Duchère
The museum was founded in 1966 by the head of Lyon's fire brigade. In 1971, the mayor of the time, Louis Pradel, provided premises in the La Duchère district to display the collections. Since 2009, the collection has belonged to the social and cultural committee of the Rhône fire and rescue service (SDIS), which manages it. This lineage, entirely tied to the world of firefighters, explains the visit's blend of technical and human tone.
On the heights of the 9th arrondissement
The museum sits in La Duchère, a hilltop district of the 9th arrondissement, west of Lyon. It is therefore a little away from the centre's tourist circuits, so plan your trip by public transport or car. In return, the space allows large engines to be displayed that could never be shown downtown. The visit especially appeals to families and lovers of technical history; it can be combined with exploring the western districts of Lyon.
Practical information
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Lyon Firefighters' Museum?
Since 1971 it has been located in the La Duchère district, on the heights of Lyon's 9th arrondissement, west of the city.
What can you see there?
A collection of 160 vehicles and more than 3,000 pieces of firefighting equipment, from the modern to the contemporary era, classified a Musée de France in 2005.
Is it suitable for families?
Yes, the engines and the rescue theme appeal greatly to children and to lovers of technical history alike. As the museum is a little out of the way, plan your trip by public transport or car.
Wikimedia Commons — Benoît Prieur
