Musee de l'Imprimerie (Printing Museum), Lyon

The Printing Museum (Musée de l’Imprimerie), located in Lyon, is a captivating destination for both adults and children, meriting a top spot on any visitor's itinerary. Situated in the historic Poulaillerie Street (Rue de la Poulaillerie), the museum is housed in the Hôtel de la Couronne, a striking hôtel particulier constructed in the 15th century for a wealthy master merchant. This building, once a residence for the city's Aldermen from 1604 to 1655, passed through different owners, including a trader and the banking group LCL, before being donated to the city in 1957. Initially hosting a banking museum, the venue transformed into the Printing Museum in 1963.

The museum's primary mission is to preserve, document, enhance, and showcase the rich heritage of printing, particularly in books and graphic arts. One of its notable features is the exhibition of works by prominent Renaissance printers like Sébastien Gryphe, a renowned 16th-century bookseller and printer, and Bernard Salomon, a celebrated 16th-century French printer, engraver, and draughtsman.

Visitors to the Printing Museum can explore an impressive collection of printing presses from the 17th to the 20th century, all meticulously maintained in working condition. This interactive element is further enhanced by organized workshops, where guests can experience the traditional process of "setting" a press.

Additionally, the museum boasts an extensive collection of historical books, including incunabula printed before Easter 1500, and an array of 16th to 19th-century woodcuts and engravings. This range of exhibits not only reflects the evolution of printing technology but also offers a window into the cultural and artistic heritage associated with the printing and publishing industry.