La Mulatière

In the heart of France, nestled along the Saône River, lies the charming village of La Mulatière. “Mule territory,” some whisper, believing the name comes from the mules that once carried goods from bustling Lyon along the Rhône. Others claim La Mulatière owes its name to a prominent resident, Clément Mulat, who settled here in the late 15th century. He is mentioned in a will dating back to 1475, adding a touch of mystery to the village’s origins. La Mulatière’s story begins long before Clément Mulat though, stretching back to Gallo-Roman times. Evidence of this ancient past can be found in remnants like the Chemin de Fontanières, an old Roman road. For centuries, the area served as a tranquil retreat for Lyon’s bourgeois families. The slopes were covered in vineyards. Only boatmen and bargees frequented the riverbanks. A dramatic transformation began in the late 18th century. In 1782, a bridge was built over the Saône, opening up what would become Rue Stéphane Déchant. This sparked a flurry of activity. The railway arrived around 1830, establishing a locomotive factory in the wild landscape. A glass factory followed in 1860, and the Trayvou weighing station in 1863. This industrial growth attracted a wave of new residents from across France and neighboring countries like Spain and Italy. The once-small hamlet, now larger than the town of Sainte-Foy, began to assert its identity. The people of La Mulatière demanded modern amenities. They wanted their own town hall, school, and cemetery. This led to a conflict that resulted in the official establishment of the commune of La Mulatière in 1885. Most essential facilities were in place before the First World War, including a church built by devoted parishioners. Between the wars, the quays were constructed, along with essential sewer systems and electric street lighting. After the Second World War, La Mulatière faced new challenges. It adapted to societal changes, maintained its industrial activities, and integrated modern infrastructure projects. The village expanded onto the hillside. New housing was built for newcomers who couldn’t find suitable accommodation in the charming but outdated older buildings. Remarkably, La Mulatière retained its village atmosphere. Residents connected with each other, played sports, and participated in community events. The arrival of SNCF’s B.I.G (General Computer Base) in 1987 further invigorated the area, providing resources for revitalization and new facilities. This included an adventure playground with a climbing wall and a library. Today, La Mulatière stands as a testament to its rich history. It continues to evolve while cherishing its close-knit community and unique charm. From its industrial roots to its modern amenities, La Mulatière offers a glimpse into the ever-changing tapestry of French village life.