Rue de Bâle

Basel’s industrial hum echoes faintly here on Rue de Bâle. This street, tucked alongside Rue Jean Bouin in Lyon’s Port Edouard Herriot, isn’t about charming cafes or grand architecture. Rue de Bâle is a testament to the raw pulse of global trade. It’s a place of long grey hangars, stacked containers, and the constant movement of goods. Why name a street in Lyon after a Swiss port? Bâle, or Basel in German, holds a unique connection to Lyon. Both cities share a link to the Rhine. Bâle sits on the river, while the Rhine’s source is near that of Lyon’s Rhône. This geographical proximity has fostered historical ties. Basel is a major hub, particularly known for its pharmaceutical industry. It’s one of only two foreign ports, alongside Amsterdam, to be honored with a street name in Port Edouard Herriot. This speaks to the significant trade relationship between Lyon and Bâle. The street’s name also reflects a shared history dating back to Roman times. Munacius Plancus founded both Lyon and Augusta Raurica, now in Bâle’s suburbs. He also established the Rhine route, connecting the two settlements. Centuries later, the cities rekindled their bond with the advent of printing. In the late 15th century, the Huszt brothers journeyed from Bâle to Lyon. They printed the first illustrated books in French, marking a pivotal moment in literary history. Today, Rue de Bâle stands as a vital artery in Lyon’s Port Edouard Herriot. The port, opened in 1937, has become a key player in container transport. Rue de Bâle, dedicated to the transport industry, embodies this modern function. So, as you stand here, amidst the industrial landscape, remember that Rue de Bâle represents not just a Swiss port. It symbolizes a rich tapestry of shared history, trade, and innovation woven between two cities across time. The street might not be picturesque, but its story resonates with the echoes of Roman roads and the hum of modern commerce.