Bustling with city life, Rue Eynard whispers tales of Lyon’s past. This short street offers more than meets the eye. Let’s uncover the story behind its name and its place in Lyon’s history.
Rue Eynard sits between Quai Perrache and the end of Rue Wuillerme. It marks the southern edge of the Presqu’île. Traffic flows smoothly on both sides of this street.
The south side features the yellow flank of a warehouse. On the north side a fence encloses the circus and Luna Park grounds.
The street is named after Ennemond Eynard. He was born in Lyon on August 10, 1749. Ennemond died in Lyon on May 5, 1837. He lived on Rue Saint Marcel and Place Saint Clair. These streets later became Rue Blandan and Place Chazette. At the time of his death, he resided on Rue des Augustins.
Ennemond Eynard wore many hats. He was a doctor, chemist, and academician. He served at the Academy of Lyon from 1805 to 1837. In 1804 he invented a way to start a fire using compressed air. The Museum of Fine Arts displays a bust of him by Legendre Héral.
Interestingly another Lyonnais named Jean Gabriel Eynard is honored in Geneva. Jean Gabriel made his fortune as an advisor. He served the Queen of Etruria and the Duchess of Tuscany. He supported Greek independence. Jean Gabriel later moved to Geneva where he died in 1863. His palace is now Geneva’s city hall.
Rue Eynard appeared on the Perrache development plan of 1825. Since the demolition of the Messageries Lyonnaises de Presse the area north of the street has become home to circuses and a winter fair.
As you stroll along Rue Eynard remember Ennemond Eynard. He was a man of science and innovation. Also think of Jean Gabriel Eynard a benefactor of Greece. This street connects Lyon to a wider world of invention and philanthropy.