Published on March 6, 2017 by Marseille Tourisme

Did you know? Facing the sea, on the Corniche Kennedy, you can find the longest bench in the world (a whopping 3 kilometers long).

Built in 1957, the bench was designed to allow the people of Marseille to enjoy a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean bay. Starting from the Pont de la Fausse Monnaie, running along the entire Corniche Kennedy, and ending at the Sofitel Palm Beach hotel, it has lived up to its promise of delivering an exceptional view. It even entered the record books in 1965, a record that has yet to be broken! This seaside bench allows for long walks by the sea with family or loved ones. You will overlook the Plage du Prophète and pass by a significant monument: the Memorial of the Repatriates from Algeria. An unusual record that you won't see anywhere else !

SINCE JANUARY 1, 2016, THE LONGEST BENCH IN THE WORLD HAS BEEN REDECORATED: MOSAICS

Since January 2016, the concrete bench has been given vibrant colors thanks to the efforts of a Marseille-based association.

"I found these benches to be very gray and plain, even though it's one of the most beautiful views in Marseille, deserving of color… I thought to myself: they are for me, I want them!" reports Paola Cervoni, an art therapist and head of the "Marseille, Mosaic City" project, to La Provence journalists.

Multiple colors were used to make the longest bench in the world more attractive. Retirees and schoolchildren worked together on this long-term project.

For the theme, they didn't need anything complicated; they drew inspiration from the most beautiful aspects of Marseille: the Mediterranean. A mural that is universally loved and was created gradually, following the imagination of young children. In total, 900 students were able to participate in this project.