Rue du Vinatier

Climbing Rue du Vinatier offers a curious juxtaposition. Rue du Vinatier gently ascends, then steepens towards the intersection of Boulevard Pinel, Rue Gelas, and Rue Lépine de Bron. The west side belongs to Lyon. The east side belongs to Bron. On the Lyon side of Rue du Vinatier, you’ll find a curious mix of neglect and hidden beauty. A parking lot and vacant land give way to a walled garden. Beautiful trees peek over the walls. A small house stands modestly. Another house sits at the corner of Rue de la Balme. Further up Rue du Vinatier, an empty lot transformed into a welcoming lawn. More gardens and houses, set back from the street, belong to Boulevard Pinel or Rue Gelas. The Bron side presents a different scene. Industrial buildings and workshops line the street. Past Rue de la Balme, a wild, untamed wood takes over. Rue du Vinatier’s name connects to the Boulevard Pinel, formerly Chemin du Vinatier. This path led to the Vinatier psychiatric hospital. The hospital is sometimes referred to as “du Vinatier”. In the 19th century, a path already existed, marking the boundary between Lyon and Bron. Now, the name “Vinatier” also marks this dividing line along Rue du Vinatier. Interestingly, all the businesses on Rue du Vinatier are located on the Bron side. These include “Les Joints Lyonnais,” a medical equipment company, a locksmith, and a body shop. Despite its quiet presence, Rue du Vinatier holds a piece of Lyon’s history, reflected in its divided nature and connection to the renowned hospital.