Picture this. You stand at the beginning of Rue Arnoud. A quaint street in Lyon’s 5th arrondissement. It begins near the Place des Compagnons de la Chanson. It then winds south. It ends a short distance later where it meets Rue François Genin and Rue Soucelier.
Rue Arnoud isn’t just any street. It’s a living testament to Lyon’s history. It’s a charming lane weaving between mostly old houses. Each house has its own unique charm. Many sit on individual plots separated by tiny gardens.
Number 4 boasts a striking feature. Two little angels crown the gateposts. Number 8 is different. It’s a small two-story building a bit isolated in its parking area. The western end of the street is more modern. A group of three-story buildings stands there. They were built towards the end of the 20th century. Their angled intersection with Rue Soucelier is quite spectacular.
This unassuming street holds a secret. It’s named after Joanny Arnoud. He was a significant figure in Lyon’s local politics. He served as deputy mayor of the fifth arrondissement and a general councilor. Interestingly Arnoud was on the municipal commission that changed street names in 1904.
Rue Arnoud is older than you might think. It’s built on an ancient rural path. This path once connected Point du Jour to Grange Bruyère. The path was straightened to create Rue François Genin. A 1734 map shows vineyards bordering the street to the west. An old pond belonging to the canons extended east to Place Teissier. The street continues to evolve. In 2008 construction of a stone house began at number 6. It’s built next to an existing house but on a different footprint.
Today the street is home to various establishments. A school teaching young children has been here since the 1960s. More recently a beauty institute a physiotherapist and a company have opened their doors on Rue Arnoud. So next time you are in Lyon take a moment to explore this hidden gem. Discover the stories whispered within the walls of Rue Arnoud.