Allée André Mure

“A concrete path, wouldn’t that be a boring start to our story?” I mused, glancing at the Allée André Mure. “Not when it borders a tranquil oasis like this.” The Allée André Mure isn’t just a walkway. It’s a front-row seat to the Saône’s gentle flow, offering glimpses of boats drifting by and the distant Balme de la Mulatière. On the west side, concrete steps invite you to sit by the water’s edge. A line of young trees separates the path from these makeshift bleachers. On the east side, building facades rise. One is tiled, the other a shimmering glass curtain. The Jardin d’Erevan provides a green buffer, separating the buildings with a wide lawn. A unique wall, crafted from Rhône pebbles held together by a grid, adds an artistic touch. Allée André Mure owes its name to a prominent Lyonnaise figure. André Mure, born in La Croix Rousse in 1922, was a man of many talents. He was a writer, a journalist for Le Progrès, and initially, a photographer. His contributions to Lyon’s cultural landscape were significant. He served as deputy mayor for culture, spearheading initiatives like the Marché de la Création, the Maison de la Photo (which later became the Institut Lumière), and the Maison de la Danse. Mure also penned the gastronomic guide “Lyon Gourmand” and authored several books about his beloved city. Interestingly, another Mure, Benoit Jules, also hailed from Lyon. Born in 1809, Benoit Jules Mure traveled the world promoting homeopathy, making notable contributions in Brazil and Cairo, where he died in 1858. The Allée André Mure, completed in 2011, is a relatively recent addition to Lyon. It’s a testament to the city’s ongoing evolution and its commitment to honoring its influential figures. As of 2020, the greenery along the Allée is lovingly maintained by local residents, demonstrating a beautiful collaboration between the city, the Maison des Jeunes et de la Culture, the Germaine Tillion school, and the neighborhood council. The Allée André Mure is more than just a path; it’s a living story, woven from history, culture, and community spirit.