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Le Veilleur de Pierre

About

Le Veilleur de Pierre, or “The Stone Watchman,” is one of Lyon’s most moving memorials, located near Place Bellecour. Created in 1992 by sculptor Georges Salendre, the monument honors the resistance fighters and deportees of World War II. The figure, carved from stone, depicts a solemn man seated in quiet vigilance, embodying both grief and resilience. His posture conveys the weight of memory, while his gaze reflects the duty to remember those who sacrificed their lives for freedom. The simplicity of the sculpture enhances its emotional power, inviting visitors to pause and reflect on the tragedies of war and the courage of those who resisted oppression. Today, Le Veilleur de Pierre stands not only as a tribute to Lyon’s wartime history but also as a universal symbol of remembrance, ensuring that the lessons of the past continue to resonate with future generations.

Lyon France

Location

Le Veilleur de Pierre is situated at the intersection of Rue Gasparin and Place Bellecour in Lyon’s 2nd arrondissement, at the heart of one of the city’s most iconic and bustling squares. This stone sculpture, created by Georges Salendre and inaugurated in 1948, commemorates five French Resistance fighters executed by German forces in 1944 at this very location. Nearby, visitors have access to the expansive Place Bellecour, known for its vibrant atmosphere, the equestrian statue of Louis XIV, numerous cafés, shops, and the nearby Rue de la République. The church of Saint-Bonaventure and the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers lie just a short walk away, situating the memorial within a rich urban environment blending history, commerce, and culture.

Le Veilleur de Pierre

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