Rue Chavanne

Nestled in the heart of Lyon, Rue Chavanne whispers stories of centuries past. This isn’t just any street. It’s a time capsule, a thread connecting us to Lyon’s rich history. Rue Chavanne is more than just cobblestones and buildings. It’s a testament to the people who walked these stones before us. Originally, Rue Chavanne bore different names: Rue du Four-Saint-Pierre, Rue Saint-Côme, and Rue de l’Herberie. These names hint at the street’s evolving identity, from its medieval origins to its modern incarnation. Imagine strolling down this narrow lane in the 15th century. The air is filled with the clang of blacksmiths and the scent of baking bread. At number 8 Rue Chavanne, Barthélémy Buyer established Lyon’s first printing press in 1473. This marked a pivotal moment in the city’s history, making Lyon a center of knowledge and literary innovation. Here, Buyer printed Lyon’s first book, followed by the first French-language book printed in Lyon, “La Légende Dorée,” in 1476. The street later took the name of Alexis Chavanne, a prominent Lyon physician and politician. Chavanne, born in Lyon in 1822, served as a physician at the Hôtel-Dieu hospital and as a deputy of the Rhône region. The street’s renaming in 1911 reflects the city’s respect for Chavanne’s contributions to Lyon. Rue Chavanne is also a visual delight. At number 10, you’ll find a stunning traboule, a hidden passageway typical of Lyon’s Old Town. This traboule leads to Place d’Albon, offering a glimpse into the secret network of alleyways that once crisscrossed the city. The traboule’s entrance is adorned with intricate wrought-iron balconies and sculpted wooden details. At number 13, the Blanchon building stands as a masterpiece of flamboyant neo-Gothic architecture. This ornate structure, built in 1849, showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of 19th-century Lyon. As you explore Rue Chavanne today, look for the plaque commemorating Barthélémy Buyer and his printing press. Imagine the bustle of activity as books were produced and disseminated throughout the city. Rue Chavanne is a journey through time, a place where the past and present intertwine to tell a unique and unforgettable story of Lyon.