Esplanade J4
The Robert Laffont promenade, also known as the J4 esplanade or Saint-Jean esplanade, is ideally located in the city to enjoy breathtaking views. Situated along the port docks, this space was originally reclaimed from the sea to build warehouses for port activity. Beneath Fort Saint-Jean, the J4 is surrounded by Marseille's prominent landmarks such as the Pharo Palace and the Major Cathedral.
THE J4 ESPLANADE: AN ICONIC PLACE OF MARSEILLE
The Robert Laffont promenade, also known as the J4 esplanade or Saint-Jean esplanade, is ideally located in the city to enjoy a breathtaking view. Located along the port quays, this space was originally reclaimed from the sea to build warehouses for port activity. Underneath the Fort Saint-Jean, the J4 is surrounded by iconic monuments of Marseille such as the Palais du Pharo and the Cathédrale de la Major.
THE STEPS OF J4'S CONSTRUCTION
This former maritime public domain of the Joliette port has existed since the 19th century and was mainly occupied by warehouses. One of them was named J4, and even though it was destroyed in 1997, the people of Marseille continue to familiarly refer to this site as J4. After the demolition of this warehouse, the municipality wanted to redevelop this 5-hectare space. A vast project was launched to restore access to the sea and create a welcoming place for all Marseille residents.
Following these works, which lasted several years, the J4 esplanade now offers a magnificent panorama of the Mediterranean Sea and a pleasant space to walk around and admire the buildings that line the Robert Laffont Promenade. The neighborhood has undergone a real transformation as two buildings were constructed there. Since 2013, the esplanade has been home to the Villa Méditerranée and the MUCEM, the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations.
THE SAINT-JEAN ESPLANADE, A MUST-SEE PLACE IN MARSEILLE
In the continuation of the Old Port, J4 enjoys a unique environment. At the foot of the Fort Saint-Jean, the esplanade is a fantastic venue for festive events such as outdoor shows, festivals, concerts, or fairs. With an exceptional seaside setting, the J4 esplanade is an absolutely ideal site for walkers who wish to (re)discover the city of Marseille!