Rue Professeur Morat

On Rue Professeur Morat, a subtle shift occurs. The city’s rhythm seems to pause, allowing a glimpse into Lyon’s rich past. Rue Professeur Morat isn’t just a street. It’s a tribute to Jean-Pierre Morat, a prominent physician and professor of physiology at Lyon’s Faculty of Medicine. He lived from 1846 to 1920, leaving an indelible mark on the medical world. Before bearing his name, Rue Professeur Morat was known as Rue de l’Asile. This unassuming pathway led to the departmental asylum in Bron, constructed between 1869 and 1878. The name changed in 1891. Later, on June 13, 1938, the Lyon City Council officially renamed the street in honor of Professor Morat. Today, the street stretches from Rue Bataille to Avenue Général-Frère. At number 30, you’ll find Square du Professeur-Morat, a playground offering a moment of respite within the city’s hustle. Morat himself was a student of the renowned Claude Bernard and a mentor to René Leriche. In 1877, he received the prestigious Montyon Prize for his groundbreaking work, “Variations de l’état électrique des muscles,” exploring the electrical activity of muscles. His contributions to the understanding of capillary vessels are immortalized in the Dastre-Morat Law. He collaborated with Dognon on a treatise on physiology, further solidifying his legacy. Eugène Briau even penned a biography of Morat, testament to his impact. As you stroll along Rue Professeur Morat, consider the layers of history beneath your feet. From a quiet country lane serving the asylum to a bustling city street bearing the name of a medical pioneer, this place echoes Lyon’s continuous evolution. Rue Professeur Morat invites you to connect with a legacy of scientific discovery, nestled within the vibrant heart of Lyon.