Rue Saint-Vincent de Paul

Could a street named Rue Saint-Vincent de Paul in Lyon hold secrets? Absolutely. Rue Saint-Vincent de Paul begins near the Église Saint-Vincent de Paul. Its location subtly hints at its namesake. The street stretches eastward, ending at Rue Delore. The street’s architecture tells a story of time. Originally, elegant houses with charming doorways graced the street’s south side. Imagine a quaint house at number 2, set back behind a rose-covered wall. Sadly, these were replaced in 2019 by the modern Only 8 building. Its white-grilled balconies now overlook commercial spaces. The northern side of Rue Saint-Vincent de Paul offers a different view. Parking spaces line the edge of Square du Quatorzième Zouaves, which gently slopes downwards. The street narrows further down. Two walled courtyards face a row of small houses on the north side before reaching Rue Delore. The street’s name honors Saint Vincent de Paul, born in 1581. His charitable works led to his canonization. The connection to the church across Route de Vienne, once a clinic run by the Sisters of Saint Vincent de Paul, explains the street’s dedication. Interestingly, Saint Vincent de Paul himself resided in Lyon on Montée du Garillan. He even served as a priest in Ars for a short period. He established the Confraternity of Charity in Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne in 1617, which continues its work today as the Équipes Saint Vincent. The saint’s presence is still felt in Lyon, with a statue at the corner of Rue Mourguet and Rue du Doyenné, inside a building dedicated to his mission. Rue Saint-Vincent de Paul, opened in the late 19th century, has seen changes over the years. Houses on the north side were demolished to create the square and parking. On the south side, a retirement home replaced older structures in 1977.