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The primacy of Paris inhibits the regional sphere of activity of second-ranking French cities. Lyon is particularly disadvantaged in that to the west lies the low population density Massif Central, to the south is the city-port of Marseilles with direct international maritime connections, to the east, Grenoble is a dynamic and, to some extent, rival pole while to the north-east Geneva has a well-established international role. To combat the primacy if Paris, and the competition of neighboring cities, Lyon is justifiably attempting to develop an international and trans-national role to enhance its economic, political and demographic base. An examination of Lyon´s status in the context of a theoretical model of an "International City", an empirical ranking of 165 European cities and Lyon´s own long-range planning policy provide the framework for this study. Lyon´s demographic strength, political situation, physical facilitators, (transportation, tourism and other infrastructure) and Lyon´s international economic position will help place Lyon within the domestic and European urban hierarchy.

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Sean M. McDonald is an Associate Professor of Geography at Bentley University. Previously, he was an International Trade Specialist with the U.S. Department of Commerce. He holds a doctorate in geography from Scotland s Glasgow University, has published in numerous academic journals, and is a partner at The Additional Research Group in Glasgow.

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