Rue d’Isly

On a crisp morning in Lyon, let’s explore Rue d’Isly. This street, tucked away in the Croix-Rousse district, holds a captivating story. Rue d’Isly begins near the town hall at Place Tabareau. It then crosses Rue Perrod and ends at Rue Jacquard. The street’s name commemorates a battle fought far from Lyon’s bustling streets. The Battle of Isly took place in 1844 between French and Moroccan forces. It occurred near the Oued Isly, a river near the Algeria-Morocco border. The battle’s outcome solidified French influence in the region. Before 1855, this street bore a different name: Rue Constantine. This quiet neighborhood around Rue d’Isly and Rue Perrod developed after 1844. Interestingly, its construction occurred right in front of the city’s old ramparts, just before they were demolished. Today, Rue d’Isly showcases a mix of architectural styles. On the west side, mid-19th-century buildings stand alongside more recent constructions. Garages line the street, hinting at the everyday life of the residents. The east side boasts a uniform row of 19th-century facades, typical of the Croix-Rousse. Shops and businesses add to the street’s charm. A garage, an appliance store, a sewing shop, a plumber, a cabinetmaker, and a bakery all call Rue d’Isly home. At number 8, a unique display chronicles the history of the Mur des Canuts. This massive fresco celebrates the silk workers of Lyon, known as canuts. The display shows the mural’s evolution from a blank wall in 1986 to its current form. Rue d’Isly offers a glimpse into Lyon’s rich past and vibrant present.