Started in 1989, the first Lighting Plan was a pioneering initiative with political, technical and artistic impact. By organizing permanent lighting for Lyon, it gave the city a new face and enabled lighting over 250 sites throughout the urban area.
Light is no longer just for security; it has become an essential component of the urban landscape.
In 2004, the second Lighting Plan completed and reinforced the first one. This time, light freed itself from being just a way to emphasize monuments; it adapted to the activities and rhythms of the city, highlighting rivers, hills, silhouettes and major roadways.
Recognized as a distinct art and a profession, urban lighting has become an essential factor in the international impact of Lyon and its suburbs.
Companies from Lyon featuring light designers, artists or architects are invited to share their knowledge around the world. Their expertise has been exported to outstanding sites: the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, the Castillo del Moro in Havana, the Ho Chi Minh City Museum, the Ryadh el Feth Monument in Algiers, the Menara Gardens in Marrakesh and the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur.
In parallel to the growth of light engineering, specific training in the field of lighting has been developed (the professional Lighting Design Management degree, for example), as well as international events (like the Lumiville show).
