Eglise Saint-Bonaventure (Saint-Bonaventure Church), Lyon

The Saint-Bonaventure Church (Eglise Saint-Bonaventure) in Lyon holds a unique historical significance as the sole medieval church in the city to withstand the construction of Impériale Street (modern-day Republic Street). This church, originally part of a Franciscan monastery, came into prominence during the funeral of Cardinal Bonaventure in 1274, which drew such a large crowd that many attendees couldn't fit inside.

The need for a larger church was recognized by Jacques de Grolée, whose grandfather had initially granted the land to the monks. However, construction of the new church didn't commence until 1325. Completed in 1327, the church presented a remarkable architectural feature for its time: it faced south. This orientation was unconventional as churches typically faced east to capture the first light of dawn, which was believed to have the power to expel the Devil from the premises.

Jacques de Grolée, unfortunately, passed away before the church's completion and was laid to rest beneath the main altar. The church underwent further expansion in 1484, leading to its renaming in honor of the 13th-century cardinal. The French Revolution marked a period of indignity for the church as it was repurposed as a grain store, but it managed to survive this tumultuous phase.

Restoration work in 1806 under Joseph Fesch revived the church's grandeur. Today, Eglise Saint-Bonaventure is renowned for its 18 chapels, equally divided along the east and west sides of the nave, and it features an exquisite stained glass window depicting Saint Remigius baptizing Clovis I. This church not only serves as a place of worship but also as a testament to the rich historical and cultural heritage of Lyon.