Rue Saint-Hippolyte

Slipping through time, imagine Lyon in the mid-19th century. Rue Saint-Hippolyte is just emerging. Now, picture yourself on present-day Rue Saint-Hippolyte in Lyon. This street, running westwards, begins facing 14 Petite Rue de Monplaisir and ends at 31 Rue des Tuiliers. Rue Saint-Hippolyte offers a hidden shortcut. You can actually traboule, or cut through, to Rue des Frères Lumière by going around the Maison des Jeunes et de la Culture (MJC). The north side of Rue Saint-Hippolyte presents a modern face with office buildings and apartment blocks. The south side, however, whispers stories of the past. A charming house with white shutters and a garden stands near a curious corner pavilion with a unique chimney. Further down, you’ll find the MJC, a vibrant hub of activity. The MJC complex extends back to Rue des Frères Lumière. The original structure, a large pink building with a columned entrance, has been expanded with modern additions. It also houses a performance hall, a testament to the street’s dedication to the arts. Rue Saint-Hippolyte also boasts a large, leafy square, complete with a playground and benches. This green haven offers respite from the city bustle. It also provides a space for community gatherings. A sports field near Rue des Tuiliers invites activity. The street is named after Saint Hippolyte. There have been several figures bearing this name. The most likely namesake, given the street’s Lyon location, is Saint Hippolyte, the 8th-century Bishop of Belley, who died in 769. His connection to Lyon lies in his time as a monk at the Abbey of Condat in Saint Claude. Monks from this abbey played a role in the founding, or revival, of Ainay Abbey in Lyon. Today, Rue Saint-Hippolyte continues to be a vibrant mix of old and new. The street balances residential life with community spaces and convenient services, including physical therapists. The MJC stands as a center for arts and culture. It’s a reminder of the street’s rich history and its ongoing commitment to community engagement.