This long street unfolds before us. It’s Rue de Créqui a Lyon landmark. Named for the influential Créqui family of Artois several members achieved great renown. Most notably Charles I Duke of Lesdiguières was Lieutenant General of the Dauphiné. The street’s very existence is a testament to Lyon’s ever-shifting urban landscape.
Rue de Créqui’s history is a fascinating journey through time. It began its life during the Restoration period and continued its development until the end of the Second Empire. First it stretched only to Cours Lafayette. Later it became part of the third arrondissement in 1860. Finally its eastern section was completed around 1875.
Initially the northern part was known as Rue de Créqui. However it ended at a much larger war memorial than exists today. For a brief period in 1848 it was called Rue de la Concorde. The southern stretch bore the name Rue des Martyrs from 1872 to 1874. This was a tribute to the victims of the Reign of Terror massacres of 1793-1794. Finally in 1878 it was officially christened Rue de Créqui. The City Council approved its extension on March 27 1890.
The site of the current war memorial was once barren land. An expiatory chapel was constructed there by the Count of Artois starting in 1814. Work resumed in 1817 and the first mass was held on May 29 1819. The street has a unique architectural character. It starts with grand buildings facing Boulevard des Belges. Most of the street features 20th-century buildings. Exceptions exist near Cours Franklin Roosevelt where older structures stand.
Administrative buildings of varying sizes cluster near Rue Royer. Many shops in the 6th arrondissement display vibrant frescoes. Further down Rue de Créqui older houses appear. After Rue Rancy green spaces and a playground offer respite. Finally after Avenue Faure you’ll discover a pétanque court.
Among the notable landmarks are the Bourse du Travail and several religious structures. Mostly built in the 19th century these include the Église de la Rédemption Église Saint-Pothin an Anglican church the memorial to the martyrs of Lyon Chapelle Sainte-Croix and Église Saint Louis. Rue de Créqui is also home to numerous law firms a library several restaurants and the Croix Rouge Lyonnaise.
So take a moment appreciate the rich history and architectural blend that makes Rue de Créqui a special part of Lyon. The street whispers stories of revolutions religious devotion and ordinary lives lived against the backdrop of this ever-evolving city. It is a place where the past and present intertwine creating a vibrant tapestry for us to explore.