Museum of the History of Medicine and Pharmacy of Lyon

A museum born in the late nineteenth century

The museum was created in 1896 by Alexandre Lacassagne and confirmed by a decree from Raymond Poincaré in 1914. This long history makes it a witness to the history of medical science in Lyon, a city known for its hospital and university world. For anyone interested in the history of science, the site's historic roots are already a reason to stop by.

From the Rhône embankment to the Rockefeller estate

Originally housed in the Claude-Bernard-Lyon-I university building on the Rhône embankments, the museum moved in 1930 to the Rockefeller estate, together with the faculty of medicine. This path shows the close link between the museum and medical teaching. The estate lies in the south-east of the city, away from the tourist heart.

Practical details to check

No reliable hours or contact details are published in the data we hold. Before travelling, enquire with the university or the faculty of medicine to find out whether the museum is open to the public and under what conditions. This precaution avoids unpleasant surprises, as university museums sometimes have particular access rules.

Who this visit is for

This stop will mainly interest fans of the history of science, medicine or pharmacy, as well as visitors who want a little-visited address. It combines poorly with a tight schedule in the centre, so it is better to dedicate a separate slot. Keep it for a second or third visit to Lyon, once the big classics are done.

Frequently asked questions