Soierie Vivante's weaving workshops : tours and demos
ID: GYG969303-1521226
Category:
Country: France
Duration:
01:30 hours
Description
Explore the rich history of Lyon, the silk capital of France. During tours, you will learn about the "canuts", their work, their way of life... and observe their looms in action !
Discover the history of the "canuts"--weavers--during a tour of two authentic workshops on Croix-Rousse, the working hill.
Each Friday, we organize tours in English (with an appointment).
First, enter the trimmings workshop, located 21 Rue Richan, 69004 Lyon. Follow the instructions near the door (on the keypad) to get in. The tour begins at 3 P.M. sharp, so be sure to be on time!
During our tour, discover the family and their looms, from their arrival in 1909 to the present day. Observe how trimming looms function during our demonstrations, and learn exactly how a Jacquard mechanism works with an up-close example. You'll also have time to ask questions...or have a look at our shop. We take pride in our selection of silk souvenirs that are locally made.
On the second half of the tour, we'l go to the weaving workshop, located at 12 Bis Rue Justin Godart, 69004 Lyon. (There is only a ten-minute walk between the two places. Be warned: there is a flight of stairs in-between!)
In this second workshop, explore the living space of a 19th-century weaver family. It is the best way to have a glimpse into the canuts' everyday life, and includes a demonstration of a historic 19th-century hand loom. After the hand loom, we will end the tour with an explanation and demonstration of our 1950's original power looms.
Your guide will be able to provide you with recommendations to continue learning about our city's history. Some of the most famous architectural curiosities of Lyon are nearby. We also encourage you to taste the city's rich gastronomy !
Highlights
- Discover genuine "canut" workshops with looms and living space
- Observe multiple old weaving looms in action
- Learn about the city history, textile history as well as the workers lives
- Hear about how a fabric is made
- Enjoy our shop filled with authentic and locally made silk souvenirs
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
This tour includes a 10 min walk with stairs.
We cannot provide access for people who cannot climb stairs (wheelchairs users, walker users...).
The workshop is on the second floor of a residential building. You will need to enter by yourself. To open the building door, please press the "0" button of the interphone and push the door. After that, climb a flight of stairs and, on your right, you will find our door. Please ring the bell and we will open the door for you !
INCLUDED
- A 1h30 guided tour in English
- Demonstrations on old looms
- Visits in old workshops
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
