Hidden within Lyon’s 9th arrondissement lies the Rue de Beer Sheva a street steeped in history and unexpected charm. This seemingly ordinary street in Lyon holds a unique story. It’s named after Beer Sheva a city in Israel 3000 kilometers southeast of Lyon. The connection? A special twinning agreement between Lyon and Beer Sheva since 1980. This unlikely pairing is celebrated right here on this very street.
Imagine walking down Rue de Beer Sheva. You pass by long apartment buildings built in the 1960s. They’re lined with trees and green spaces. Some buildings show the scars of time. There are traces of fire damage. Yet the abundance of greenery softens the harshness. It offers a sense of unexpected tranquility. This peaceful atmosphere belies a history of change.
In 2017 demolition permits were filed for several buildings. This suggests a potential transformation for the area. Further down the street is the École des Géraniums. Its new building opened in 2006. The school’s cheerful facade with its painted murals stands in vibrant contrast to the aging concrete. This cheerful facade is a surprising touch in an area showing its age.
The Rue de Beer Sheva isn’t just concrete and buildings. It also houses a synagogue and the Rav Hida center. A mosque was built around 2016 near Rue Béjard. This illustrates the diverse religious landscape of this small part of Lyon. Local shops and businesses line the street near Avenue de la Sauvegarde. A butcher shop and an OPAC office are among them. Even a dentist has his practice here. This diverse mix of businesses adds to the daily life on this unassuming street.
The Rue de Beer Sheva bends and turns. It creates a small square with Avenue de la Sauvegarde. Small alleys wind between buildings and gardens. One path leads to Avenue Ben Gourion. Pine trees and other greenery line the way. It is a peaceful secluded spot within the bustling city. The street’s unique layout is a reminder of its unplanned growth over the decades.
So next time you wander through the streets of Lyon remember the Rue de Beer Sheva. Its unassuming nature hides a story of twin cities unexpected connections and a vibrant community. It is more than just a street. It is a microcosm of Lyon’s rich history and diverse present. It is a place worth exploring.