Marvelous Rue de l’Angile isn’t it? This unassuming street in Lyon’s 5th arrondissement holds secrets centuries old. Rue de l’Angile has witnessed history unfold. It connects Rue Octavio-Mey and Rue Louis Carrand. Its existence is documented as far back as 1550.
Imagine the 15th century. The Medici family established their bank right here in this very neighborhood. Their influence resonated through Rue de l’Angile. The street’s name itself is a mystery. Some say it’s from a house called “l’Angello”. Others suggest it was once “Rue de l’Anguille” the street of the eel. The name’s origin remains unknown.
Rue de l’Angile wasn’t always so charming. In 1860 it was a narrow dark alley. The late 19th century brought significant changes. The Saint-Paul train station was built. This transformed the area including Rue de l’Angile. The construction of the Palais Bondy and the Hôtel du Collège in 1902 finalized the transformation.
But Rue de l’Angile’s past is more than just urban development. It holds a theatrical secret. A jeu de paume a type of indoor tennis court once stood here. It was where Molière’s play L’Étourdi was allegedly first performed around 1653. Imagine the laughter the applause the thrill of a brand new comedy.
Today Rue de l’Angile is a narrow paved street. You can still find traces of its past. A traboule a secret passageway connects number 4 Rue de l’Angile to number 5 Rue Octavio-Mey. The Palais Bondy now houses a music conservatory. It’s a reminder of Rue de l’Angile’s vibrant history. The street’s quiet charm belies its dramatic past. Its quiet corners whisper tales of bankers artists and playwrights. It’s a street steeped in history. It’s a street worth exploring.