A quiet street. That’s Rue Albert Chalinel. But don’t let its unassuming nature fool you. This seemingly ordinary street in Lyon holds a fascinating history.
Rue Albert Chalinel starts at Rue Hector Berlioz. It gently slopes upwards ending at Rue des Docteurs Cordier near Rue Fayolle. The street sign at its entrance to Lyon is a bit odd. The city limit is actually further along Rue Fayolle.
Notice the mix of old and new buildings. On one side you’ll find newer houses. Then three older grand houses stand together. The most unique one is set back hidden behind a wall and a hedge. Across the street a hedge lines an older six-story building. Another hedge hides a garden belonging to a house on Rue Cordier.
Rue Albert Chalinel wasn’t always called that. It was once known as Chemin Vauchier. It was also part of Rue Ernest Fabr`egue. The street is named after Albert Chalinel who sadly died in 1960 while serving in Algeria.
At number 31 sits La Coquette a building dating back to 1895. This is a remnant of an older path. A significant portion of the original path was removed in the 1980s. This was during the development of the Saint Rambert plateau.
Take a moment. Notice the two benches near Rue Berlioz. They offer a quiet spot to rest and reflect on the rich history that unfolds along Rue Albert Chalinel. A small street with a big story. Its quiet existence belies the changes it has witnessed over time. From a small path to a residential street Rue Albert Chalinel continues to quietly weave its way through Lyon’s past.