Didn’t FèLix Faure die in the arms of his mistress? That’s the man this avenue is named after. Avenue FèLix Faure is a significant street that bridges Lyon’s 3rd and 7th arrondissements.
Let’s explore the story behind this bustling avenue. It stretches from Avenue Jean Jaurès to Place des Maisons-Neuves marking the edge of Lyon and Villeurbanne.
Until 1900 it was known as Avenue du Château. This name came from its proximity to the Château de la Buire. Today, the chateau is part of the André Lirondelle university residence. The city renamed it to Avenue Félix Faure on April 24 1900. This honored Félix Faure who served as President of the French Republic from 1895 to 1899.
Félix Faure’s origins trace back to Meys near Lyon. However local historian Louis Maynard notes that his name holds little local historical significance. Despite this Avenue Félix Faure remains a vital part of Lyon’s urban landscape.
Until 1947 the Gare de Lyon-Est stood on Avenue Félix Faure. It was near Fort Montluc and the former La Part-Dieu freight station. The station was demolished around 1950 changing the avenue’s landscape.
As you walk along Avenue Félix Faure notice the architecture. The sidewalks are lined with trees. The avenue intersects other streets creating small triangular plazas. Place Rouget de L’Isle at the intersection of Avenue Lacassagne is larger. Buildings from the 20th century showcase diverse architectural styles.
The initial stretch features buildings from around 1900. They are typically seven stories high with framed windows and wooden doors. Interspersed are newer constructions. Number 12 dates back to 1957 while number 34 was built in 1975. Number 63 was constructed in 1934.
Look at number 2. It is quite striking with its projecting columns. The school at number 9 dates to 1896. Two pavilions connected by walls can be seen. Number 20 has a facade set back from a grand portal creating a small gallery that extends to Rue de Créqui.
Past Rue du Lac the ambiance shifts. Recent buildings line the street. To the south workshops obscure the construction site of La Buire. To the north stand three villas including one resembling a private mansion with decorated keystones. This villa dates to 1875.
At the intersection of Boulevard Vivier Merle admire the geometric buildings. The area offers views of the telecommunications building and the renovated Fort Montluc. Crossing the tramway line the avenue returns to a more traditional built up area. Buildings from around 1900 line the street with three or four stories and simple designs.
Number 165 facing Place Rouget de L’Isle stands out with its eight stories and columns. From numbers 185 to 189 three gates open onto a building a house and a sports field. Approaching Place des Maisons Neuves the houses become shorter with ironwork details. The avenue culminates in the vast Place des Maisons Neuves.
Félix Faure’s connection to Lyon extends beyond the avenue’s name. In 1896 he visited Lyon as head of state. He inaugurated the faculty of law and letters and the Croix Rousse hospital. A photograph at the Lyon library captures this visit.
Though he died in scandalous circumstances in 1899, Avenue Félix Faure serves as a reminder of his time as president. Today Julie Nublat Faure continues the family’s connection to Lyon serving as deputy for sports. From Rue du Château to Avenue Félix Faure this street encapsulates Lyon’s evolving history.