Opening of the aquarium 2002 (≈ 2002)
Inauguration after 2 years of work.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Key figures
Maurice Chichportiche - Founder and initiator
Initial owner, creator of Saint-Malo aquariums.
Origin and history
The Aquarium de Lyon is a private aquarium opened in 2002 after two years of work, initiated by Maurice Chichportiche, already owner of the Aquarium d'Intra Muros in Saint-Servan/Saint-Malo and founder of the Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo. Located in La Mulatière, in the Lyon metropolis, it is distinguished by its location at the confluence of the Rhône and the Saône, an emblematic site of the region.
The aquarium is organized around 39 ecosystems representing 300 species and 3,000 specimens, spread over 1 million litres of water. Among its flagship attractions, the Shark Fosse stands out for its 23 cm thick methacrylate glass, designed to withstand water pressure. The thematic areas include Confluence (temperate freshwater fish), Tropical Balade (tropical species), World Reefs and Marine Curiosities.
Originally worn by Maurice Chichportiche, the aquarium is now owned by the Spanish group Aspro-Ocio, which also manages other water parks such as Aqualand. This transition reflects a European dynamic in the management of tourist and educational sites dedicated to marine biodiversity. The establishment thus combines conservation, pedagogy and entertainment, in keeping with a logic of family and scientific tourism.
