Can you hear the echoes of Vaise’s past right here on Rue Transversale? This street in Lyon’s 9th arrondissement might seem like just another road but it holds a story of transformation and resilience.
Rue Transversale is located in the Vaise quarter. Vaise was once an independent commune. It was annexed by Lyon in 1852. The street runs from Rue Masaryk to Rue du 24-Mars-1852. It intersects Rue de la Claire.
Its name “Transversale” simply means “cross street”. It got its name because it runs somewhat across the other streets in the neighborhood. It is a testament to a time when functionality trumped imagination.
The street’s origins trace back to around 1850. It was part of a longer route created during Louis-Philippe’s reign from 1830 to 1848. This original road ran parallel to Rue de Bourgogne. It extended to Rue Mouillard near the Duchère hillside. The construction of the Gare de Vaise reduced it to its current size by 1850.
Rue Transversale has been around since at least 1842. The street’s history isn’t always obvious. Historian Maurice Vanario noted that “Rue Transversale” was once a name for Rue d’Aubigny in Lyon’s 3rd arrondissement.
In September 2020, workers discovered a World War II bomb at number 15 Rue Transversale. The bomb likely dated back to the bombings of May 26, 1944. English and American aircraft carried out these bombings during the German retreat. The deactivation required the evacuation of 4,500 people on March 7, 2021. Residents were housed in gyms outside the evacuation zone.
Architecturally, the east side of Rue Transversale features old facades. These buildings range from two to four stories. Notice the colonnade on the top floor of number 9. Also, note the window frames at number 11. Number 3 is a more modern building. The west side includes a car repair shop and a modern building with large glass windows.
North of Rue de la Claire, the street was once part of the Tissmétal company. This section was reopened in the early 21st century.
Today, Rue Transversale houses the École de santé sociale, the Collège coopératif, and the Millot company. You can also find a fitness equipment manufacturer and a restaurant here. A bench sits at the corner of Rue du 24 mars for those who want to pause and reflect.
So, as you walk along Rue Transversale, remember that it is more than just a street. It is a slice of Lyon’s history. It is a story of urban development, wartime drama, and everyday life.