“Vallon,” a name whispered in the corridors of time. But here we are on Boulevard Victor Hugo. This boulevard tells a tale of transformation and tribute.
Boulevard Victor Hugo in Lille is more than just a street. It is a testament to urban planning and literary appreciation. It connects the districts of Wazemmes and Moulins. It stretches from Parc Jean-Baptiste Lebas to Place Barthélémy-Dorez. This is also known as Porte des Postes.
Originally named Boulevard Vallon in 1863. This boulevard was part of Lille’s seventh expansion, a plan adopted in 1858. The vision was to link key boulevards. These were Boulevards Vauban, de la Liberté and Montebello. They were the strategic points of the expanded Lille.
In 1881, Boulevard Vallon was renamed Boulevard Victor Hugo. This was in honor of the celebrated writer Victor Hugo. His legacy now graces this important thoroughfare. Imagine horse-drawn trams once traversing this very road. The number P tram line served the boulevard but was closed in 1938 due to low ridership.
Today, Boulevard Victor Hugo features two lanes of traffic in each direction. Wide sidewalks line the boulevard. Trees provide shade along the sides. The architecture is primarily residential. Buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries dominate the street.
Many are brick houses. These are vernacular Lille-style buildings. They usually have two stories. Some buildings showcase an eclectic Lille style. A few workshops dot the landscape. Modern buildings are a rare sight here.
Among the notable buildings is La Malterie. It is located on the corner of Rue Kuhlmann. Built in 1871, it was once a brewery. Now, it is a hub for artists. It houses studios, a concert hall, and an exhibition space. It also has rehearsal spaces for musicians.
Look closely at numbers 126 and 128. These houses exemplify the boulevard’s architectural charm. Note the eclectic style present in other buildings along the street. This blend of styles reflects Lille’s diverse heritage.
Imagine the bustling activity in 1910. Trams rumbled along the tracks and people strolled along the wide sidewalks. The air filled with the sounds of commerce and conversation. Today, the boulevard retains its residential character. It offers a peaceful contrast to the city’s busier areas.
The spirit of Victor Hugo lives on here. His words echo in the hearts of those who traverse this boulevard. Boulevard Victor Hugo is a reminder of Lille’s past. It connects that past with the present and honors a literary giant.