Le Grand Trou

Deep in the 8th arrondissement of Lyon, nestled between bustling streets and railway lines, lies a neighborhood with a peculiar name: Le Grand Trou. This name, literally translating to “The Big Hole,” often sparks curiosity among visitors. Let’s unravel the story behind Le Grand Trou. Le Grand Trou, a distinct neighborhood within Lyon’s 8th arrondissement, is bordered by the railway lines to the north and west. To the south lies the Moulin-à-Vent quarter, and to the east, the États-Unis. The heart of Le Grand Trou is marked by the Saint-Vincent-de-Paul church and Place Belleville. Before becoming part of Lyon in 1852, Le Grand Trou belonged to the commune of La Guillotière. This area was crossed by the historic National Road 7, which stretched from Paris to Antibes. This road passed through Moulin-à-Vent and Saint-Fons on its southward journey. The unique name “Le Grand Trou” might be linked to the area’s history of excavations. These excavations, possibly for gravel extraction or water drainage, may have left noticeable depressions in the landscape. The name also distinguishes this area from another “Le Grand Trou” in Vizille, avoiding any confusion. In the 19th century, this area transformed with the establishment of a mental health institution. In 1848, Dr. Jean-Baptiste Carrier founded a sanctuary for women on the Route de Vienne. This institution, entrusted to the Sisters of Saint-Vincent-de-Paul, became a prominent landmark. Later, with the rise of industrialization, factories like Patay and Givaudan sprung up. These sites now stand as reminders of Le Grand Trou’s industrial past. The echoes of these industries and the history of excavations linger in the air. Le Grand Trou’s story, etched in the very ground you stand on, continues to evolve, blending its past with the vibrant present.