Square Édouard Mouriquand

Overlooking the Saône River, Square Édouard Mouriquand is a curious blend of street and square. Square Édouard Mouriquand sits nestled between Quai Sédaillan and the railway line, offering a unique perspective of the Saône Valley. The valley is framed by hills on either side, creating a picturesque backdrop for this urban oasis. Square Édouard Mouriquand is more than just a green space. It’s a microcosm of Lyon’s history, reflecting the city’s urban development in the mid-20th century. The surrounding HLM buildings, constructed in 1954, stand as testaments to this era. These buildings, with their rounded three-story structures and five-story towers, define the square’s northern edge. Broad roadways, separated by a central reservation dotted with benches and poplars, frame Square Édouard Mouriquand. These roadways diverge around a lush, tree-filled lawn, providing access to various amenities. A gymnasium with a large glass facade overlooks the lawn. Benches offer a place to relax and soak in the surroundings. To the south, a concrete school building extends along the square’s edge, its facade adorned with reliefs of children. Three individual houses, two resembling chalets, are tucked away in sloping gardens. One garden features a charming rockery with a small cascade. This cascade flows under the roadway and eventually empties into the Saône, a hidden detail visible from the Quai Sédaillan railing. Square Édouard Mouriquand also boasts recreational facilities, including a parking area, pétanque courts, a basketball court, and a small white building to the north. The square’s namesake, Édouard Mouriquand, served as deputy mayor of Lyon from 1945 to 1951. A Lyon native, Mouriquand wore many hats. He was a photographer, a member of the Sanzist movement, and an employee of the Institut Mérieux. His contributions to the city earned him this unique honor. This quiet space, with its curious blend of urban and natural elements, offers a peaceful retreat. It serves as a reminder of Lyon’s rich history and the individuals who shaped it.