Tour Part-Dieu, Lyon

The Tour Part-Dieu, formerly known as the Tour du Crédit Lyonnais, is an iconic skyscraper located in the La Part-Dieu district of Lyon. Standing tall at 164.9 metres (541 feet) and comprising 42 floors, this building is a notable feature of the city's skyline. Completed in 1977, it currently ranks as the ninth-tallest building in France.

The architectural design of the Tour Part-Dieu is the work of the American firm Araldo Cossutta & Associates. The construction period spanned from 1972 to 1977. This skyscraper is distinguished by its cylindrical shape, which is crowned by a striking 23-metre-high pyramid, adding a unique aspect to its overall appearance.

An interesting architectural detail is that the top of the tower was designed to be roughly at the same height as the Notre Dame de Fourviere, aligning with the architect's vision. Initially, at its opening in 1977, the Tour Part-Dieu was the fourth tallest building in France and now stands as the tenth.

The building's usage is divided between hospitality and office space. The top 10 floors are occupied by the Radisson Blu Hotel Lyon, which holds the distinction of being the highest hotel in Europe. The remaining floors are utilized as office spaces.

Significantly, the Tour Part-Dieu is the tallest skyscraper in France outside the Ile-de-France region. On its 31st anniversary, the building underwent a rebranding, officially adopting the name Tour Part-Dieu on September 22, 2008. Along with the name change, a new logo was introduced, but it retains its affectionate nickname "The Pencil," a moniker it has been known by since its inception. This nickname is a nod to the tower's distinctive shape and has become an endearing part of its identity among locals and visitors alike.