As a token of appreciation for the booth we hosted last December at the majestic Gare de Lyon, the Director of Paris Lyon and Paris Bercy Bourgogne Pays d’Auvergne stations, Clémence CATEL GIRARD, invited us to an exclusive visit of the iconic Clock Tower.
Inaugurated for the 1900 World’s Fair, Gare de Lyon is one of Paris’s most emblematic railway stations. Serving as a major gateway to southeastern France and to European destinations such as Switzerland and Italy, it welcomes millions of passengers every year. Its Belle Époque architecture, its legendary restaurant Le Train Bleu, and its striking silhouette make it a landmark of French railway heritage.
The station’s Clock Tower rises to nearly 67 meters (220 feet) high. Inspired by the campanile of St. Mark’s Square in Venice, it has dominated the neighborhood skyline for over a century. Its monumental clock face sets the rhythm of daily life for travelers and stands as a powerful architectural symbol. Gaining access to this usually closed-off space was a true privilege, offering a unique perspective on the history and inner workings of this remarkable site.
The evening continued with our board meeting held in this exceptional setting, combining heritage, elegance, and the vibrant atmosphere of rail travel.
And for those familiar with our usual premises: yes, we were briefly unfaithful to the Gare de l’Est… but just this once!
