“Where does this avenue begin and end?” That’s the question buzzing in my mind as we stand here at Avenue Roger-Salengro. This avenue in Villeurbanne carries the weight of history. It stretches from Place Wilson to the Pont de Croix-Luizet. But the real story of Avenue Roger-Salengro lies in its name and its past.
This avenue is named after Roger Salengro. He was a significant politician born in 1890 and died too early in 1936. But there is more to it.
Historical records show traces of this route. These traces date back to the 16th century. Imagine people walking this path centuries ago. They had no idea it would become Avenue Roger-Salengro.
Let’s talk about the physical layout. Avenue Roger-Salengro intersects many streets. As we head east from Place Wilson, we cross Rue Gervais-Bussière and Avenue Galline. The list goes on and on with Rue Marteret and Rue Descartes. These crossings mark the rhythm of the avenue.
Villeurbanne once had a defensive wall. It was built to protect Lyon. This wall had monumental gates. These gates facilitated the movement of people and goods. Avenue Roger-Salengro was one of these gates. The army made some generous concessions for the national defense.
The wall’s construction started in 1885. It mobilized many workers. The wall stretched for eleven kilometers. Villeurbanne was largely protected. The Brosses district was an exception.
But the wall did not last. By 1904, the municipality wanted it gone. They argued that it hindered development. The military resisted at first. After World War I, the army relented. In 1928, the city bought a large part of the wall.
Today, Avenue Roger-Salengro stands as a testament to Villeurbanne’s evolution. It’s a reminder of a politician. It reminds us about a city’s defense. It is a story etched in stone and asphalt.