Ever heard of a square honoring a black Mozart? Welcome to Place Chevalier de Saint-Georges in Lyon. It’s a tribute to an extraordinary figure. This place links the Confluence area’s past and present.
Place Chevalier de Saint-Georges lies between the quai and the chaussée Rambaud. The Sucrière sits to the north. Pavillon 52 stands to the south. The square is named for Joseph Bologne de Saint George.
He was born on December 25 1745 in Guadeloupe. Joseph Bologne de Saint George died on June 10 1799 in Paris. He’s celebrated as the Chevalier de Saint George a composer.
He arrived in Bordeaux very young. He escaped a life as a slave which was his mother’s fate. Joseph led an exceptional life.
He gained fame as an athlete. More importantly Joseph Bologne de Saint George became one of the best fencers of his time. He also excelled as a musician. Joseph was a violinist composer and conductor. He founded a music society called the Concert des Amateurs. His talents opened doors to the French and English courts.
Joseph Bologne de Saint George had a military career. He led a legion of Americans. They held Lille during the wars of the revolution. He was arrested in 1793.
He seems to have a link with Lyon. Joseph Bologne de Saint George took lessons with Jean Marie Leclerc.
The portico and Sucrière were renovated in the 2010s. They are remnants of the port Rambaud. This port was active from 1926 to 1997. Pavillon 52 was built in 2016. It defined the square’s form.
The square’s ground is sparingly used. The south side is concrete. The north side has beaten earth. It sits beneath the old port Rambaud’s preserved unloading portico.
The Sucrière hosts art exhibitions. Its facade and roof called Le Sucre are cultural and musical venues. The Pavillon houses Acies and Imaginove’s 187 members. The Sucrière houses offices for Arkane studio M6 Web Lyon and Elephorm.
Place Chevalier de Saint-Georges stands as a testament. It celebrates a man of diverse talents and a rich history. Take a moment to appreciate the legacy of the Chevalier. Remember his contributions to music sports and French society.