Picture this. You are standing at the Place des Poilus a small square in Lyon’s 3rd arrondissement. It’s more of a crossroads really. The Place des Poilus isn’t grand. It’s tucked away between buildings. Yet it holds a poignant history.
The Place des Poilus is named for the Poilus. They were the French soldiers who fought in the trenches of World War I. The name itself is a testament to their sacrifice. The last of these brave men died in March 2008. A ceremony was held in Lyon to commemorate him. It’s a quiet tribute to their courage. A fitting memorial for those who fought so bravely.
The square itself was formed in the latter half of the 19th century. It’s not a planned square. Its unique shape came from the way the houses were built. Each corner is a small indentation between buildings. Each building is quite old. Many are just one story high. They belong to the surrounding streets Rue Jeanne d’Arc and Rue Saint Isidore. One building is unique. It’s a small factory located at the southwest corner. A recent development saw this replaced by a new building.
In 2016 the place had changed. Large flower boxes filled the space where cars once parked. The change showed a shift from traffic to a calmer more pedestrian-friendly environment. The Place des Poilus is a reminder. It’s a reminder of those who served France. It is a small but vital part of Lyon’s history. It speaks to the quieter side of the city. A small space with a story as big as the war it remembers. The Place des Poilus is more than just a crossroads. It is a living monument.