Rue Basse Combalot

In 1826, a brewer named André Combalot had a vision for Rue Basse Combalot. He saw a bustling street, nestled at the foot of the Guillotière bridge in Lyon’s 7th arrondissement. Rue Basse Combalot wouldn’t exist without Combalot’s initiative. He filled in the arches of the bridge. This created the land where the street now lies. He even built a row of buildings along its northern edge. The street’s name, “Basse Combalot,” reflects its location. “Basse” means low, referencing its position below the bridge. “Combalot,” of course, honors its creator. Originally, the street was simply called “Rue Basse” or “Rue Combalot”. The name “Rue Basse Combalot” came into common usage later. Officially, it wasn’t part of the new Combalot district designated by the city in 1842. Today, Rue Basse Combalot connects Place Raspail and Place Gabriel-Péri. It’s a short street, a quick walk. But it holds a piece of Lyon’s history. Steep stairs lead up from the street to Place Raspail to the west and Cours Gambetta to the north. Imagine the residents and shopkeepers traversing these stairs daily. They connect this quiet street to the bustling heart of Lyon. If you visit today, you’ll find a mix of businesses. You’ll see restaurants like Le Petit Gaulois and a Tandoori restaurant. You’ll also notice Blanc sanitaire et chauffage and a hair salon. The street also has a unique artistic side. The L’Élysée, a theater and performance venue located in a former cinema, calls Rue Basse Combalot home. This cinema itself replaced a textile factory in 1914. The association Woodstower, organizers of a festival at Miribel Park, are also situated here. Even in 2021, artists were drawn to Rue Basse Combalot. A collective organized a “Garoue Garou” art walk, beginning on this very street. It featured a series of collages. So next time you find yourself on Rue Basse Combalot, take a moment to appreciate its unique history. From a brewer’s vision to a vibrant street, it’s a small but significant piece of Lyon’s urban tapestry.