Along Rue Curtelin in Lyon a stunning plane tree marks the intersection with Rue des Emeraudes. This unassuming street holds a fascinating history.
Rue Curtelin wasn’t always Rue Curtelin. Before 1932 it was known as Rue du Midi. The name change honors Jean Philippe Curtelin. He served as a deputy for road maintenance at Lyon’s city hall. He was born in 1857 in the Ain department. He died in Lyon in 1929 at 12 Rue du Parfait Silence.
The street itself is a product of the early 20th century. However most buildings along Rue Curtelin were reconstructed in the latter half of that century. A blend of architectural styles reflects this reconstruction. A striking student residence with rounded lines and vertical openings occupies one side. Opposite stands a building with equally vertical lines suggesting an industrial past.
Further down near Avenue Thiers a small building sits behind a commercial gallery. Across the street stands a larger six-story residence arranged around a courtyard. Today three businesses occupy Rue Curtelin. These include an IT company a hardware store and an antique shop. These modern businesses stand on a street shaped by history.
A little-known fact connects Rue Curtelin to a renowned architect. Georges Curtelin Jean Philippe’s relative designed many significant buildings in Lyon. These include the 9 Quai Jean Moulin completed in 1934 for the Rosset silk company. He also designed the school at Place Saint Jean and the Point du Jour theatre. His architectural achievements extend to several religious buildings. Georges’ father a renowned painter further adds to the family’s artistic legacy.
Rue Curtelin therefore represents a confluence of history and architecture. It’s a quiet street with a rich untold past. Next time you walk along Rue Curtelin take a moment to appreciate its unique blend of past and present.