Ainay 2.25

Ainay is an area within the Presqu'ile district in the 2nd arrondissement of Lyon, to the south of Place Bellecour and the north of Perrache. It is best known for its Romanesque church, the Basilica of Saint-Martin d'Ainay. A high-class area, bourgeoise, in the city centre, its buildings mainly date to the Bourbon Restoration era. It now houses the 2nd arrondissement's town-hall, as well as many shops along its pedestrianised main street, Rue Victor Hugo. It is served by the Metro station Ampère - Victor Hugo.Several hypotheses have been raised as to its name, which may be linked to Athanase (Athanasius) or, more doubtfully, to Athena.