JEP 2026: Visits to the Prefecture and the Hôtel du Département du Rhône on 19 September

From news to action

Who is concerned

All inhabitants of the Rhône and the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, including immigrants and new arrivals, wishing to visit the building; each registrant can add up to 3 additional people.

What to do

Pre-register now on the official page of the European Heritage Days of the Rhône Department (referenced page pl01_2118253 on rhone.fr), before the places are exhausted. The final confirmation will be sent to you by email from the 9 September 2026; keep it and present the 19 September 2026.

Official sourcePréfecture du RhôneJEP : visitez de la Préfécture et de l'Hôtel du Département, les inscriptions sont ouvertes !Official source ↗

Background

Inaugurated in 1890, the building was designed by architect Georges-Antoine Louvier and embodies the Third Republic. Visitors will discover the facade, the staircase of honour, faithful replica of that of the Paris Opera, the lounges and even the private dining room of the Prefect. Guided tours are provided by agents of the Prefecture and the Conseil départemental du Rhône.

Why it's important

The prefecture is an administrative building usually closed to the public, and this visit is only possible once a year. It is a free opportunity to discover an exceptional 19th century heritage in the heart of the territory. For newcomers, this also helps to get to know French institutions nearby.

What Changes

Registrations are already open: the announcement was updated on 26/08/2026, and the final confirmation by email will begin on 9 September 2026.

Useful details

Date of visit: Saturday 19 September 2026, with 10 slots available during the day.
Mandatory pre-registration, limited places; during registration, it is possible to pre-register 3 additional people.
Final e-mail confirmation effective September 9, 2026.
Themes of JEP 2026: "Heritage of Photography" and "Heritage at Risk: Reviving, Resisting, Reimagining".
The building was inaugurated in 1890; architect: Georges-Antoine Louvier; to see: the staircase of honour, copy of that of the Opéra de Paris, and the figures of Lyonnaise and Beaujolaise.
Announcement updated the 26/08/2026; contents of the site under license etalab-2.0.

Terms to know

Préfecture: Administrative establishment of the State at the level of the department: residence permits, official documents, security.
Journées européennes du patrimoine (JEP): Annual visit where monuments and buildings usually closed to the public are visited free of charge.
Hôtel du Département: Headquarters of the Departmental Council, the assembly that manages the local affairs of the Rhône department.
Pré-inscription: Application for mandatory pre-registration, prior to final confirmation by email.