An Astronomical Clock From A Distant Century
One of Lyon, France’s principal cathedrals is dedicated to the biblical John The Baptist. It is the historical seat for the Archbishop of Lyon. Built on the ruins of a 6th century church, Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Lyon began construction in 1180 but wouldn’t be completed until 1476. Despite the extended construction period, the Gothic design remains consistent throughout most of the structure.
The cathedral was founded upon the memory of Saint Pothinus and Saint Irenaeus. Pothinus was the initial bishop of Lyon and martyred during the Christian persecution of 177 A.D. Irenaeus was a Greek bishop who became his successor. He was known for battling Gnostic interpretations of scripture as heresy. During the lapse of time following the persecutions condoned by Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, he split his duties serving as pastor and missionary. Little is known regarding his death, but the Catholic Church regards him as a martyr. He was buried under the church, but the Huguenots destroyed his tomb and remains in 1562.
One of the most fascinating interior features is the 30-foot high 17th century astronomical clock. The first evidence of a similar timepiece within the cathedral dates from 1380, but was destroyed during the Huguenot 16th century pillage. Guillaume Nourrisson reconstructed a replacement in 1661. All royal insignia references were removed during the French Revolution.
An astrolabe indicates the date and positioning of the Moon, Sun, Earth and Stars. The central octagon tower supports several automated figures including numerous angels and iconic children. Additionally, martyrs St. John the Baptist and St. Stephen are represented along with the Virgin Mary and a Swiss Guard who rotates around the dome. The most recent restoration in 1954 reset the clock’s perpetual calendar. The clock has been inactive since 2013.