La Tour Rose (The Pink Tower)

Historic Building and Tower in Lyon

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Fred Romero

Tucked away at 16 rue du Bœuf in the heart of Lyon’s Saint-Jean district, the Crible House—better known as the Pink Tower—stands out instantly thanks to its signature ochre-hued spiral staircase tower. One of the most eye-catching buildings in Vieux Lyon, it’s a classic example of Renaissance architecture and Lyon’s distinctive color palette. Perhaps its most notable guest was King Henry IV, who stayed here briefly in 1600 while marrying Marie de Medici just a few steps away at the Saint-Jean Cathedral. Now a listed historic monument since 1937, the building today houses the French Orthodox parish, and its name lives on through the nearby restaurant La Tour Rose, which originally occupied the ground floor.

The building dates back to the 16th century, and though some sources attribute its design to Italian architect Sebastiano Serlio, this connection remains unconfirmed. Architecturally, it’s unique in the neighborhood—the central courtyard portal framed by a pediment is unlike anything else on the street. As for the name “Crible” (meaning “sieve”), its origins are still debated. One theory connects it to a 16th-century tax collector named Martin de Troyes, possibly referencing a sieve on his coat of arms. Others believe the name may have referred to a decorative sign once hung on the facade, a common practice in Lyon, especially when linked to local trades such as tanning or agriculture. By 1676, the house had been divided into several dwellings and was known for its elegant interiors and a sign referencing royal billiards, adding another layer to its colorful past.

The La Tour Rose (The Pink Tower) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Lyon!

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