Did you know this posh avenue earned its name from Belgian bravery? The Boulevard des Belges stands as a testament to resilience. It reflects Lyon’s architectural evolution. Prepare to discover its secrets.
The Boulevard des Belges is more than just a street. It is a journey through time. It showcases Lyon’s history and architectural styles.
Once upon a time, this boulevard was simply named Boulevard du Nord. In 1916, Lyon honored Belgium. The Municipal Council renamed it to Boulevard des Belges. This tribute commemorated the Belgian army’s staunch defense in 1914. They stood firm against invasion. This act of defiance resonated deeply. Lyon wanted to show its support.
Imagine this area in the 19th century. Before the grand buildings, huts dotted the landscape. A magician resided here. The street was pleasant despite the poverty. People strolled along it. These humble beginnings contrast sharply with the boulevard’s current grandeur.
Much of the Boulevard des Belges was built where old city walls once stood. These walls were erected during Louis Philippe’s reign. Later, under the Second Empire, the boulevard began to take shape. The final military buildings were removed by 1890.
In 1897, Mayor Antoine Gailleton implemented strict regulations. These rules governed buildings on the park side of the boulevard. Shops were banned. Buildings could not exceed three stories. Construction began around 1900. It continued into the early 20th century.
Look at the northern side of the Boulevard des Belges. Mansions and luxury buildings line the street. They reflect Lyon’s eclectic architecture. You will see styles from Napoleon III to Art Nouveau. Some even echo the 1930s and Le Corbusier. Buildings here are legally limited to three stories.
Notice the odd-numbered houses along the park. They are separated by a grid and private gardens. It is said that Lyon’s wealthiest citizens reside here. Door plaques often display only initials. Yellow stone mansions stand at No. 33. Identical marble-paved buildings are at Nos. 35 and 37. Flags with sculpted golden lions adorn the green gates. These overlook the park.
Consider the southern side of the Boulevard des Belges. Buildings here were constructed later. They went up in the early and mid-20th century. Buildings after Rue de Créqui have four to eight stories. Many even-numbered buildings after Avenue Verguin feature half-columns.
Many buildings on the street have remarkable architecture. Hotel Vibert at No. 15 stands out. François Rostagnat designed it for Laurent Vibert. He founded the Pétrole Hahn society. Marius Bornarel created bourgeois buildings at Nos. 18 and 66 in 1931. Art Nouveau sculptures and ironwork embellish No. 45. The building at Nos. 65-67 mixes white and pink stones. Nos. 82 and 99 are luxurious houses in the Haussmann style. Hotel Lutetia at No. 114 showcases Art Nouveau. Martinon created it in 1910.
The former Musée Guimet at No. 28 is a notable monument. Built in 1878, it was a natural history museum. It housed Egyptian and Asian collections. Stuffed animals, aquariums, and a mammoth skeleton were displayed here.
The Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany is at No. 33. The building dates back to around 1900. It became the consulate in 1954. Previously, the consulate was on Place Bellecour. This building is officially a monument historique.
The Boulevard des Belges is a mosaic of history and architecture. From its humble origins to its present-day elegance, it embodies Lyon’s spirit. Take a moment to appreciate the resilience and artistry that define this iconic boulevard.