Ever wonder about a street that has seen public executions? Welcome to Rue Louis Fort. It is one of Lyon’s oldest streets. Let’s uncover its hidden stories together.
Rue Louis Fort’s story dates back to the Middle Ages. By 1356, the area was already known. The name Rue Lanterne appeared in the 16th century. However, only the central part bore this name initially.
Originally, a door closed the street to the north. It wasn’t until the mid-19th century that this door was opened. Imagine public executions taking place here in 1790. Unlike other streets in the neighborhood, Rue Louis Fort remained untouched by the restructuring of Prefect Claude-Marius Vaïsse.
Once, a bas-relief adorned a house corner. It depicted a lion clutching a lantern in its claws. In 1507, plans were made for the street’s paving. Interestingly, a shop sign gave its name to a section of the street. This was the Rue de l’Enfant-qui-pisse. It connected Place de la Platière and Rue Longue. In 1846, it became part of Rue Louis Fort.
Picture a statue of a child urinating wine during festivals. Fires ravaged the street’s butchery in 1612 and 1734. Notable establishments included the inn of the Grand Chevalier and the Hôtel de l’Écu de France in the 18th century. There was also the night club Au Fort de Brissac in the 19th century. An ancient tombstone was unearthed here in 1867.
The southern part of the street was formed in 1846. This happened with the inclusion of Rue de l’Enfant-qui-pisse. The street also expanded northward. Part of Rue de la Boucherie des Terreaux was absorbed during Louis Philippe’s reign. Houses along the street had names like L’Urne aux Roses and À la Toison d’Or.
Many famous figures lived on Rue Louis Fort. Goldsmiths, painters, and surgeons called this place home. Even Alphonse Daudet resided here for a time. Architecturally, number 11 once featured a Roman emperor’s bust. A medallion with a lamb hanging from a chain adorned number 24.
The street starts with grand 19th-century buildings. Next, you’ll see the great door of the Hall of the Terreaux. Its traboule is only open for major events. After Rue Constantine, houses from various eras display carved doors.
Old shop signs of inns and apothecaries once dotted the street. Today, you’ll mostly find restaurants. But there is also the Hot Club de Lyon at number 26. It opened in 1981 and is France’s first jazz gallery. Major landmarks include the four-star Grand Hôtel des Terreaux. It showcases beautiful stained glass. There is also the neogothic temple at number 10. Built between 1855 and 1857, it now serves as the Cultural Association of the Reformed Church of Lyon Terreaux.
The straight traboule at number 4 is blocked up. It consists of conventional 19th-century bourgeois architecture. The curved traboule at number 29 is also blocked. It starts with a high stone ground floor. A wide door features an open transom and a traditional hammer. It crosses three buildings and ends at number 20 rue Paul Chenavard.
At number 8, Romanticism influences the architecture. There is a diversity and richness of decorative programs. A variety of sources inspire this design.
Rue Louis Fort offers a glimpse into Lyon’s past. From public executions to artistic residences, this street has witnessed much. Take a stroll and feel the echoes of history beneath your feet.