In this article, discover five must-see sites from our Rhône Urbex Map which lists more than 50 abandoned places carefully cataloged to experience unique and immersive explorations.

Urbex, or urban exploration, appeals to adventure enthusiasts seeking abandoned places full of history. With its ruins and little-known heritage, the Rhône offers a perfect setting for this activity.

1: The École des Pentes in Lyon

Located on the heights of the iconic Croix-Rousse district, the École des Pentes, built at the beginning of the 20th century, once welcomed generations of students from working-class families of the Lyon silk workshops.

• Architecture: Stone building, large classrooms, narrow corridors typical of old establishments.
• Condition: Peeling paint, cracked blackboards, and overturned furniture
  Access: Accessible through a window

2: The Piano Manor near Villefranche-sur-Saône

Former prestigious residence located near Villefranche-sur-Saône, the Piano Manor gets its name from the grand piano still present in one of the lounges, a relic from a time when music regularly filled the house. Now abandoned, it retains remarkable elegance that attracts urbex enthusiasts.

• Architecture: Stone facade, large lounges, refined woodwork, and central staircase.
• Condition: Moderate deterioration with humidity
• Access: Possible access but located near inhabited areas

3: The Retirement Home near Tarare

Former medical facility dedicated to supporting elderly people, the Retirement Home near Tarare now stands in an unsettling silence, far from the lively scents of the town.

• Infrastructure: Building with simple lines, long tiled corridors
• State of Decay: Relatively deteriorated, with visible signs of wear
• Safety: Some areas may be unstable, so caution is advised

4: The Austel Chapel near L'Arbresle

Small isolated chapel located near L’Arbresle, the Austel Chapel is a former place of worship now abandoned. Discreet and surrounded by vegetation, it retains a spiritual charm that attracts urbex enthusiasts.

• Architecture: Stone nave, small bell tower, damaged stained glass, and bare altar.
• Condition: Cracks and weakened roof.
• Access: Easily accessible

5: The 1939 Station near Mornant

Former small station built at the end of the 1930s, the 1939 Station of Mornant bears witness to a now vanished railway past. Abandoned for many years, it offers a frozen scene where one can still imagine the passage of trains and travelers of the past.

• Structures: Passenger building, small platform overgrown with vegetation, metal shelter, and rusty rails.
• Condition: Marked by graffiti and visible wear
• Access: Accessible from outside

Conclusion

The Rhône is a top destination for urbex enthusiasts, with its many fascinating and historically rich sites. These explorations are most meaningful when prepared with care and respect. This is the spirit behind our selection,

drawn from our Urbex Map Rhône, a true reference tool for an authentic and safe immersion.