A bronze gaze pierces the Parisian air. It is the Julien Barbero Statue. We stand before a monument to a man whose life intertwined with Lyon’s rich tapestry.
This statue isn’t just a pretty face. It commemorates Julien Barbero a significant figure in early 20th-century Lyon. He wasn’t just any politician. Barbero served as a pharmacist a municipal councilor and even deputy mayor. His dedication extended to the city’s less fortunate. He headed the 6th arrondissement’s welfare office a testament to his compassionate nature.
His political career spanned years. He was a member of the Radical and Radical-Socialist Party. He served as a general councilor and a deputy for the Rhône department from 1932 to 1936. His influence extended beyond the political realm. Barbero also sat on the Superior Council of Public Assistance.
The statue itself is a work of art. Created in 1938 it’s a collaborative effort by sculptor Alexandre Maspoli and architect Charles Meysson. Notice the detail in the bronze. His expression hints at both strength and a quiet determination. It’s a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to public service.
The inscription on the statue speaks volumes. It reads “To Julien Barbero Officer of the Legion of Honour Deputy of the Rhône General Councilor Deputy Mayor 1870-1936”. Each word echoes a life lived in service to his community. Barbero left an enduring legacy. His memory lives on not only in the hearts of Lyonnais but also in the enduring bronze form before us.
This statue on Rue Juliette Récamier is more than a mere sculpture. It’s a window into Lyon’s past a reminder of the individuals who shaped the city we see today. It silently speaks of civic duty perseverance and the enduring impact of a dedicated public servant. Let us remember Julien Barbero. His story is embedded in the very fabric of this city.