Built by the civil architect, Simon Maupin, in 1646, it was "revisited" by Jules Hardouin-Mansart, in charge of reconstruction after partial destruction in the fire of 1674.

The interior decorations were redone during the Second Empire. Then the fires, depredations and ravages of the revolution justified large-scale works undertaken in 1852 by René Dardel, city architect, and his successor, Tony Desjardins, completed 9 years later. They gave the building its interior decoration as we see it today. Renowned for the frescoes by Thomas Blanchet, the decoration of City Hall is inspired by the sumptuous decors of the Baroque period prized by the court of Napoleon III.

A rich mixture of styles
Though the original structure follows a Louis XIII plan, (rectangular layout, central court framed by corner pavilions with steep roofs, a lower court), the renovation work of the late 17th century gave it new amplitude by adding a level to the middle section, punctuated by bay windows and topped with a balustrade and statues. Sculptured pediments and domes embellished the pavilions. The interior succession of halls, decorated with stuccos, wreaths and gilding, combine the allegoric paintings of Thomas Blanchet and the luxurious decorations of the 19th century. The great staircase linking the atrium to the halls on the upper floor is the centerpiece of the design, with its remarkably decorated vaulted ceiling, "L'éternité de la gloire de Lyon" (The eternal glory of Lyon).

Important moments in the history of City Hall
The construction of City Hall was ordered by the Lyon Consuls at the beginning of the 17th century in order for the municipal authorities to have their own building. Important dignitaries (including Louis XIV) were received here throughout the following centuries. From the 17th century to the Second Empire, grandiose balls and the meetings of the municipal assembly, composed of a provost of merchants and four magistrates, were held within its walls. City Hall was also the seat of the Revolutionary Court in 1792 where the Marseillaise was sung for the first time in the Great Hall. Under the Second Empire, the Prefect had his apartments at City Hall. The second floor of the north wing was redesigned with ceremonial halls to receive the Emperor and Empress during their visits to Lyon. One of these halls is today the Mayor's office.