Jardin du Rosaire (Rosary Garden), Lyon

The Rosary Garden (Jardin du Rosaire), nestled on the historic Fourvière Hill in Lyon, is a serene and picturesque garden that offers a tranquil escape and a fascinating journey through history and nature. Originally developed in the 19th century, this garden was initially crafted to facilitate processions in honor of the Virgin Mary to the newly constructed Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

The garden is characterized by its diverse flora, with numerous trees like lime trees, chestnut trees, and maples creating shaded areas, ideal for relaxation and reflection. In keeping with its historical roots, the garden is divided into thematic zones such as the rose garden and the Chinese garden. As visitors stroll through, they can admire the beauty of old roses, hydrangeas, and an orchard, alongside a fountain that adds to the serene ambiance.

An intriguing feature of the Rosary Garden is the series of small plaques embedded in the ground. These plaques mark the stages of praying the rosary, a tribute to the garden's religious heritage. The path still plays a significant role in religious observances, especially during the procession on December 8, a date of great importance to the Catholic community in Lyon.

At the summit of the garden, you'll find an incredible view of Lyon from the Basilica esplanade. There's also a metal tower here, serving as a relay antenna and resembling a mini Eiffel Tower. The Rosary Garden has historical ties to Pauline Jaricot, a key figure in the 19th-century Living Rosary movement, who once lived in the nearby house of Lorette at the garden's base.