Wondering about the story behind this expansive space? This is the Promenade Robert Laffont in Marseille. It is also known as Esplanade du J4.
The Promenade Robert Laffont is located in Marseille’s 2nd arrondissement. It sits at the foot of Fort Saint-Jean. It marks the southern mouth of the Joliette port.
This promenade owes its name to Robert Laffont. He was a Marseille native and the founder of Éditions Robert Laffont.
Let’s dive into its history. The Promenade Robert Laffont occupies what was once a maritime public domain. For years, the area was home to Hangar J4 of the Port of Marseille. It underwent significant renovations as part of the Euroméditerranée project.
After the hangar’s demolition in 1997, the esplanade was transformed. It became a vast public space spanning five hectares. This area connects the Major, Fort Saint-Jean and the Mediterranean Sea. Major construction took place from 2009. It concluded in 2013, coinciding with Marseille-Provence 2013. This included constructing the MuCEM and Villa Méditerranée. Two docks were created between the esplanade and Fort Saint-Jean. A new esplanade covered 20,000 square meters.
Since 2013, the Promenade Robert Laffont has housed significant cultural institutions. These include the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations and the Villa Méditerranée.
During the 2009-2013 renovations, two docks were created. These docks restored the Fort Saint-Jean’s waterfront to its early 20th-century appearance. This was before the Hangar J4 was built. These L-shaped docks connect to the sea south of the Saint-Jean dike. They cover an area of 10,485 square meters. A promenade exists along Fort Saint-Jean. It is called the Louis Brauquier promenade. It allows pedestrians to walk from the Old Port to the Promenade Robert Laffont. They can enjoy the sea views along the way.
An underground parking was also created. The MuCEM and Villa Méditerranée stand to the south of the Promenade Robert Laffont. A dock separates them. Footbridges connect the MuCEM to Fort Saint-Jean. They also connect to the parvis of the Saint-Laurent church.
In 2014, the J4 officially became the Promenade Robert Laffont. Robert Laffont was born in Marseille in 1916. He died in 2010. He founded Éditions Robert Laffont in Marseille in 1941. This became a prominent French publishing house. He pioneered methods inspired by the United States in France. These included market research and advances for authors. He also launched bestsellers with significant promotion.
As you stroll along the Promenade Robert Laffont today, you are walking through history. This is a space where maritime heritage meets modern culture. The area provides a vibrant public space for all to enjoy. Take a moment to appreciate the blend of history and culture that defines this iconic Marseille location.