“Was it always a triangle?”. That is a question that might pop into your head as you arrive at Place du Commandant Claude Bulard.
Welcome to Place du Commandant Claude Bulard. It is a small but historically significant space in Lyon’s 7th arrondissement. Today, we will explore its story. We will uncover the layers of history embedded in this triangular square.
Originally known as Place d’Aguesseau or Place Combalot, its story began in 1844. The heirs of André Combalot ceded the land to the city. This André Combalot and Louise Bermond de Vaulx were siblings. This cession likely related to the liquidation of the Combalot brewery. This area saw the construction of five remarkable buildings. They formed a triangular block enhanced by the square’s opening.
The creation of the square marked a transition. It moved from the first general alignment plan of La Guillotière to the second. The realized square was smaller than initially planned. This was due to Scève’s original design from 1827.
In 1976, Place d’Aguesseau received a new name. It became Place du Commandant Claude Bulard. This honored Claude Bulard. He was a martyr of the Resistance.
Claude Bulard was born in Reims on October 6, 1909. He is remembered as a hero of the resistance. The Commandant died on April 17, 1943. He was in front of 4 rue Béchevelin. A plaque there commemorates his memory. The city’s website details his arrest on April 15. He was picking up mail for the Gilbert network. He died at Gestapo headquarters. At that time, he lived at 59 avenue Foch.
His death and the dismantling of a clandestine mailbox led to Jean Moulin’s arrest. Jean Moulin was a key figure in the French Resistance.
The square itself is triangular. It is bordered by Rue d’Aguesseau to the south. Rue Béchevelin borders it on the east.
In 2022, the square underwent renovations. Looking around, the south side features a building on Rue d’Aguesseau. It includes a workshop. This workshop has two floors and garrets above it. The main building on the east side has four floors. It connects Rue d’Aguesseau and Rue Béchevelin. The north side, part of Rue Béchevelin, features a newer concrete building. Its commercial spaces are often covered in graffiti.
Place du Commandant Claude Bulard represents Lyon’s history. It reflects urban development and wartime resistance. As you stand here, remember those who shaped this space. From the Combalot family to Commandant Bulard. Each contributed to the unique character of this square.