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Origin and history

La Maison Le Viste, also known as "Maison des Pommes de Pin", is an emblematic monument of Old Lyon, located at 29 rue Saint-Jean. Built in the 15th century (with 16th century elements mentioned in the sources), it embodies the urban architecture of the Lyon Renaissance. Its facade, decorated with pine apples, and its ogival porch on carved columnettes reflect the late Gothic style. The house is closely linked to the family Le Viste, an influential bourgeois of Lyon, including Jean Le Viste, judge of the secular court in 1416, was a notable patron, who sponsored the tapestry La Dame à la Licorne.

The house, partially preserved in its original state (only the first floor keeps authentic elements), has undergone transformations over the centuries. Today, it houses the Diogene bookshop, specialized in ancient books, since 1973. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Saint John district, its facade and architectural elements have been protected as a Historic Monument since 1937. The house illustrates the traditional pattern of Renaissance city houses, with building bodies organized around a courtyard.

The Le Viste family, originally from the region, has marked the history of Lyon with its political functions and patronage. Jean Le Viste, a central figure, symbolizes the rise of the local bourgeoisie in the 15th century. The motif of the pine apples, present on the facade, earned the building its popular nickname. Although originally built in the 15th century, sources mention a period of construction in the 16th century, suggesting reshaping or historical confusion.

The Old Lyon district, where the house stands, is an exceptional testimony of urban life in the Renaissance. Ranked by UNESCO, it includes hundreds of historic buildings, including Le Viste House, one of the most remarkable examples. Its present state, mixing medieval and reborn elements, makes it a key place to understand the architectural and social evolution of Lyon between the Middle Ages and the modern era.

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