When we visited Lyon on February 5, 2019, one quiet historic site caught our attention: the Bell Tower of Charity. Part of the former Lyon Charity Hospital, built in the 17th century, the hospital was demolished in 1934 due to hygiene concerns, leaving only the bell tower.

Standing here, we felt connected to centuries-old charitable efforts and the children once cared for within its walls. For us, it’s a small but fascinating destination, perfect for anyone interested in history, architecture, and hidden city corners.

Where It Is and How to Get There

The bell tower (Clocher de l’Hôpital de la Charité) stands in Place Antonin-Poncet in Lyon’s 2nd arrondissement and is a public outdoor monument you can view for free at any time. There are no official ticketed opening hours or entry fees for simply seeing it from the square.

The tower is located on Place Antonin-Poncet, 69002 Lyon, near Place Bellecour, easily reached on foot or by public transport (e.g., Metro Line A or D to Bellecour; many buses also serve the area).

While the official Lyon tourist office lists the bell tower as a remarkable site, it does not document regular, standalone guided tours of the tower itself with set times or prices; guided experiences that include the monument are generally part of broader city heritage tours offered by third-party operators, and prices and durations vary by provider

Because there is no formal paid entry or dedicated internal tour, most visitors spend a short amount of time — often 15 to 45 minutes — walking around the square, reading informational plaques, taking photos, and imagining the historical context of the former hospital that once stood on the site.

History of the Charity Hospital

The Lyon Charity Hospital was founded in the 1600s to care for orphans and children from impoverished families. It provided shelter, basic care, and occasional education, operating more as a combination of orphanage and hospital. By 1934, the hospital was demolished for hygiene reasons, leaving the bell tower, inspired by Bernini’s sketches, as the only surviving structure.

Architecture Highlights

The bell tower stands approximately 40 meters tall, making it prominent in Antonin-Poncet Square.

- Design: 17th-century European style, Bernini-inspired with elegant proportions and subtle decorative details.

- Photogenic angles: Morning or late afternoon sunlight enhances the stone details against the modern city skyline.

- Accessibility: Free to view from the square.

For us, it’s amazing how this single tower preserves Lyon’s charitable legacy. Even from a distance, it feels both historic and timeless.

Visiting Hours and Ticket Prices

- Viewing from the square: Free, available anytime.

- Guided tours: Occasionally offered by Lyon heritage organizations.

- Duration: 30–45 minutes.

- Price: ~$5 per person.

- Best visiting times: Morning (9–11 AM) or late afternoon (3–5 PM) for softer light and fewer crowds.

We found that even a short 30–45 minute visit is enough to appreciate the architecture, take photos, and imagine the hospital’s past life.

Nearby Dining Options

After visiting, we explored local cafés and bistros around the square:

- Café du Soleil: Coffee and breakfast, $6–$12 per person.

- Le Jardin Gourmand: Lunch or light meals, $15–$25 per person, offering salads and Lyon specialties.

- Pâtisserie du Palais: Quick pastries or desserts, $3–$7 per person.

For us, combining a visit with a coffee or pastry made the experience relaxing and enjoyable.

Accommodation Nearby

For travelers wanting to stay close to the bell tower:

- Hotel Carlton Lyon: 4-star, ~$120 per night, 10-minute walk.

- Ibis Lyon Centre: Budget-friendly, ~$70–$90 per night, clean and convenient.

- Airbnb apartments: Private apartments nearby, $60–$100 per night, ideal for longer stays.

We liked staying near Antonin-Poncet Square because it allowed morning visits and evening walks along the Rhône River.

Tips for Visiting

- Bring a camera — the contrast of historic tower and modern Lyon makes for striking photos.

- Dress warmly in February; we wore coats and comfortable walking shoes.

- Combine the visit with Antonin-Poncet Square, Rhône River walks, and Lyon Opera for a half-day outing.

- Respect the site — do not climb or touch historic stonework.

- Spend 30–45 minutes for a relaxed visit and photos.

A Small Landmark with Big Stories

Visiting the Bell Tower of Charity reminded us that Lyon’s history isn’t only in museums — it’s also in quiet corners where people cared for one another centuries ago. We left with a deep respect for the early charitable efforts and a sense of connection to Lyon’s past. Next time we stroll through the 2nd District, we’ll make sure to pause at this hidden landmark — it adds warmth, depth, and history to the city’s modern streets.