Rue Sœur Janin

Did Sister Janin ever imagine a street named after her, here amidst the towering white apartment buildings of Lyon? Rue Sœur Janin isn’t your typical Lyon street. It’s a unique blend of urban planning and a touch of seclusion. Located in the 5th arrondissement, Rue Sœur Janin is more of a cul-de-sac. It branches off from Rue Edmond Locard, near the Centre des Massues and the Point du Jour stadium. The street curves eastward, ending in a loop. This design quirk allows cars to easily turn around. But beyond the practicalities of urban design, Rue Sœur Janin holds a story. The street is dominated by an array of white apartment buildings, some reaching up to fourteen stories. At the southern end, near Rue Locard, you’ll find a row of smaller houses, creating a striking contrast. This area also houses a school, its brightly colored window frames and balcony plastics adding splashes of vibrancy to the otherwise white landscape. North of the roundabout at the street’s end, a path leads down into the woods. This path connects to Chemin de Champvert and eventually to Avenue Barthélemy Buyer, across from Avenue Sidoine Apollinaire. Rue Sœur Janin honors Françoise Claudine Janin, a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to healthcare. Born in Sion in 1870, she passed away in Lyon in 1945. Sister Janin served within the Hospices Civils de Lyon from 1891. Her career likely began at Hôtel Dieu or La Charité. She later became head of obstetrics at Edouard Herriot Hospital, where she spent her final days. Her dedication earned her the Legion of Honor, a testament to her unwavering commitment to the well-being of others. Even in 2021, retired hospital staff still resided at the Pierre Garraud Hospital, a continuation of the legacy she helped build. So, as you stand on Rue Sœur Janin, take a moment to appreciate not just the architecture, but the woman behind the name. This street, a blend of urban planning and natural escape, echoes the life of service and dedication embodied by Sister Janin, a true figure of Lyon’s heritage.