The development of urbanism in the city of Lyon is surprising and unique. In Gallo-Roman its center is mainly on the Fourviere hill. It has naturally moved slowly towards the Saone then spreading further east.

The medieval city moved to the lower slopes, wedged between hill and river. Neighborhoods of Vieux-Lyon, built on a narrow strip of land, are clinging to the slopes. The streets, stairways and passages slide down to the Saone. In the Renaissance period of the city, the three neighborhoods acquired their characteristics :

- Saint-Paul : north district of the big bourgeoisie, financial and commercial center

- Saint-Jean : at the center, quarter of the higher clergy and the aristocracy

- Saint-Georges : south artisans' quarter.

The evolution of the district spread to the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, the influence of Lyon is transformed and the city is revitalized. The city then developed itself on the other side of the Saone. After years of neglect and indifference, having escaped demolition reckless and expressway projects, thanks to the Malraux Act, Vieux Lyon in 1964 became the first protected area in France. The old stones and old houses were restored to life again. That means over 2000 years of life that have been registered as World Heritage by UNESCO in 1998.