How about we pause for a moment on Rue Renan? It is a street that whispers tales of transformation. Rue Renan is tucked away in Lyon’s 7th arrondissement. It might seem like just another street but its history is rich.
Rue Renan is a short street. It stretches eastward from Place du Prado. It sits at the corner of Rue Bancel near Rue de l’Université. It curves gently and ends facing south on Place Jean Macé.
Let’s talk about its architecture. The street begins with an old building. It is decorated with the Japanese restaurant’s signs. Next to it stands a newer six-story building with a rounded central section. After Rue d’Anvers, the north side features former workshops. These have been transformed into nightclubs. The south side along the curve has old two-story houses. Number 12 stands out rising two stories higher like a small tower. Rue Renan’s intersection with Rues Chevreul and Saint Jérôme forms a small square. The final stretch continues the curve. Here you will see a mix of recent and old buildings. They range from two to six stories high. Notice the projecting column near number 17. Look for the ironwork flowers which are rare on a recent building. This building forms a curve on Rue Jaboulay. Finally, note the building at number 30. It dates back to 1897 and adjoins those on Rue Servant. Isolated opposite Place Jean Macé, its brown façade has four stories with six windows wide.
Rue Renan has evolved over time. It follows part of the old Chemin de Gerland. This path existed in the early 19th century. Back then it was lined with only a few houses. A century later, fortifications and railway tracks cut it off. Jean Jaurès Avenue and Place Jean Macé further separated it. The street bears witness to its history. Constructions from various periods mark its timeline.
Rue Renan owes its name to Ernest Renan. He was born in Tréguier on February 28, 1823. He died in Paris on October 2, 1892. Remembered as a philosopher and historian, Renan was a great thinker. He published many books including a history of Christianity’s origins. He revolutionized thought with a secular view of Christ. Renan taught at the Collège de France. He was also a member of the Académie Française. As a Grand Officer of the Légion d’Honneur, his national fame earned him this street’s dedication.
Today Rue Renan offers various services. There are three bars including the 7ème Arrdt. Several companies are located at number 23. Some are educational including a branch of the University of Leon. You will also find four auto garages here. Additionally, Rue Renan houses an insurer, a restaurant, and a pizzeria. A hairdresser, an electrician, and an alarm vendor also operate here. A psychiatrist, a student residence, and a Velo’v station complete the picture.
So, as we continue our tour remember Rue Renan. It is a place where history, architecture, and modern life meet. It is named after a philosopher and historian.