Where does history meet medicine? Here on Rue Professeur Maurice Vallas. This street in Lyon is more than just a passage. It is a tribute to a man who left an indelible mark on the world of surgery.
Rue Professeur Maurice Vallas is located in Lyon’s 4th arrondissement. It stretches from the junction of Rue Mascrany and Rue Ruplinger to Rue Pons. It is a relatively short street. Some might even call it a passage rather than a full-fledged street.
Maurice Vallas was born in Lyon on December 14 1860. He died on November 4 1931. His birth records initially registered him as Valla. This was later corrected to Vallas. He lived on Rue Emile Zola when he died.
Vallas was a highly respected surgeon. He served as a surgeon-major at the Hôtel-Dieu de Lyon. He specialized in urology. He also developed a knee surgery technique that bears his name. During World War I, he served as inspector general of health at the front. This highlights his commitment to serving his country during a time of crisis.
Before it was named Rue Professeur Maurice Vallas, it was known as Rue Lassalle. The street’s architecture is notable. The west side features a large wall covered in ivy. This protects the old house of the Centre d’Action Éducative. The east side has another large two-story house. Next to it is a wall that hides the playground of the Lapierre school.
The roadway itself is divided into three parts. There are two passages along the walls. One slopes upward and the other is almost flat. Between them is a drainage gutter. An oblique wall with two large pipes compensates for the difference in levels.
Interestingly, another Maurice Vallas was born in Lyon in 1940. He published a book titled Pachynaye. However, this street is dedicated to the surgeon. It recognizes his contributions to medicine and his service to the community.
The area around Rue Professeur Maurice Vallas was urbanized in the mid-19th century. Today, it is home to associations connected to the Lapierre school. It also houses a medical social service.
So, as we stand here on Rue Professeur Maurice Vallas let us remember the man behind the name. Let us think of his contributions to medicine. Let us remember his service during World War I. Let us appreciate how this street honors a man who made a difference. It is a fitting tribute to a Lyon native who left a lasting legacy.