Long ago Boulevard Gambetta was known as Cours des Capucines. It was part of a grand plan. This plan envisioned a public promenade. This promenade would stretch from Place des Capucines to the bustling crossroads of Canebière-Garibaldi-Dugommier. The Capuchin convent stood here. It gave its name to the avenue. Construction finished in 1775.
Boulevard Gambetta in Marseille connects Place des Capucines to Square Stalingrad. It’s a significant artery in the city. It boasts a rich history. Its past reflects Marseille’s evolution. This boulevard has witnessed immense changes.
Originally two avenues existed. They joined in the east. One was Cours des Lyonnaises. This is now the upper Canebière. The other Cours des Capucines. This is now our Boulevard Gambetta. A third avenue was added later. It united the existing two. This was completed in 1793. It was then named Boulevard Dugommier.
During the Revolution the avenues changed names. They became the Allées du 10 août. This referenced the storming of the Tuileries. The Marseillais battalion played a role. They popularized the Marseillaise song. The convent was gone. It was destroyed in 1807. This allowed the avenue to be planted with trees. People loved to stroll here on Sundays and holidays.
In 1920 the Allées des Capucines became Allée Léon Gambetta. This honored Léon Gambetta. He proclaimed the Republic in 1870. He was elected deputy of Marseille. The boulevard later saw significant changes. Underground parking was constructed. This meant the central roadway shifted. The central tree-lined median was removed. New sidewalks were paved. New trees were planted.
Today Boulevard Gambetta is a vibrant part of Marseille. It’s a testament to the city’s enduring spirit. It connects the past to the present. The Moroccan Consulate is located there at number 22. This adds to its international character. This boulevard reflects Marseille’s enduring energy. It is a symbol of its layered past. It serves as a vibrant connector in the heart of this historic city.