Rue du Tonkin

Amidst the bustling energy of Lyon, a quiet street whispers tales of colonial history. Rue du Tonkin, an unassuming lane in Villeurbanne, holds a connection to a distant land. Rue du Tonkin’s name, surprisingly, predates the Indochinese exhibits at the 1894 Lyon Exposition. Records show the street name existed as early as 1885. This was during the Second Tonkin Expedition. France was expanding its colonial reach in Southeast Asia. The street’s name became a tangible reminder of this far-off campaign. Rue du Tonkin wasn’t always a quiet street. It was once a vibrant marketplace. In the 1970s, this bustling market transformed into the modern “dalle du Tonkin”. Today, the area is a mix of residential and office buildings. This area also includes several schools, consulates, and public service buildings. It’s a far cry from the marshy land owned by Lyon’s Hospices Civils in the 19th century. Development began in the mid-1800s, alongside the nearby Parc de la Tête d’Or. Initially, the area was even known as the “Quartier de la Tête d’Or”. Rue du Tonkin stands as a testament to Villeurbanne’s evolving urban landscape. It’s a quiet reminder of a complex history, woven into the fabric of this vibrant city.