Rue Dubois

Gazing down Rue Dubois, one can almost hear the echoes of history. Rue Dubois is more than just a street in Lyon’s 2nd arrondissement. It’s a time capsule, layered with stories of blacksmiths, timber merchants, and the ghosts of vanished streets. Rue Dubois begins at Quai Saint-Antoine and ends at Rue Édouard-Herriot, facing Rue Henri-Germain. Imagine the clatter of horses’ hooves and the rumble of wooden wheels as merchants transported their goods along this very path. Some historians believe the street’s name, Rue Dubois, meaning “wood street,” comes from the timber merchants who once traded here. Another theory suggests it was named after a blacksmith, Du Boys, whose workshop stood along the street. Before 1855, Rue Dubois absorbed two smaller streets: Rue des Souffletiers and Rue Chalamont. This blending of streets reflects the constant evolution of the city, where the past merges seamlessly with the present. Interestingly, Rue Dubois once extended to the Palais de la Bourse. However, in 1962, the section between Rue Édouard-Herriot and Rue de la République was renamed Rue Henri-Germain. While the street’s reach may have shortened, its historical significance remains undiminished. Today, as you stroll along Rue Dubois, observe the blend of architectural styles. Notice the grand archway near Quai Saint-Antoine, a modern addition to this historic street. Further down, admire the ornate facades of 19th-century buildings. Look for the remnants of older structures, like the curiously adorned arches at number 9, or the beautiful capitals at the neighboring building, featuring a head, serpents, and a beehive. Rue Dubois encapsulates the vibrant spirit of Lyon, where the whispers of history mingle with the energy of modern life.