Église Saint-Nizier (Church of Saint-Nizier), Lyon

The Church of Saint-Nizier (Église Saint-Nizier) in Lyon is a historical and cultural landmark with a rich and varied history. Located in the Presqu'ile region of Lyon, this church sits strategically between the Terreaux Square (Place des Terreaux) and the Jacobins Square (Place des Jacobins). It is named after Nicetius of Lyon, a notable 6th-century bishop of the city.

The site of the church has ancient origins, initially housing a Roman monument, possibly a temple dedicated to Attis. This site was significant in the context of Christian persecution in Lyon around 177 AD. In the 5th century, Eucherius of Lyon, the 19th bishop, constructed a basilica on these ruins to enshrine the relics of martyrs from the 177 persecution. Originally called the "Church of Holy Apostles," it became a burial site for bishops in the 6th century, leading to it being renamed after Nicetius, a bishop whose body was said to perform miracles.

Saint Austregisilus served as abbot in the 7th century, marking another chapter in the church's long history. The 8th century brought devastation, first by the Saracens and then by Charles Martel. Bishop Leidrade initiated a reconstruction in the 9th century. The 13th century saw the influence of Peter Waldo, a parishioner whose followers, disturbed by the church's wealth, set fire to it in 1253.

The church underwent gradual reconstruction from the 14th to the late 16th century. It played a significant role in the city's socio-political life, hosting gatherings of notables in 1562 and later serving as the election site for aldermen in the 17th century. However, it also suffered from attacks, including those by Huguenot bands who plundered bishops' tombs and the upheavals of the French Revolution.

After the Revolution, the church was repurposed as a flour warehouse. A late 18th-century plan to transform it into a gallery was halted by a petition from 100 notables. The sacristy was added in 1816, and an organ installed in 1886.

Extensive renovations began in 1968, led by the management of the monument historique and the city of Lyon, culminating in 1998. This restoration work has helped preserve the church's historical significance and architectural beauty, making it a key historical site in Lyon.