In the footsteps of Napoleon: a visit to the lanterns

Statue of Sieyès: a revolutionary honored in Fréjus 

Born on May 3, 1748 in Fréjus into a modest bourgeois family, Abbé Emmanuel-Joseph Sieyès was one of the most influential minds of the French Revolution. 
Through his hard-hitting pamphlets and visionary texts, he contributed powerfully to the rise of revolutionary ideas, notably writing the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen. A genius theoretician, he also participated in the creation of the Constitution. Sieyès' destiny then crossed that of General Bonaparte, with whom he orchestrated the coup d'état of 18 Brumaire. But Bonaparte, aspiring to imperial glory, refused to share power and quickly pushed Sieyès aside. 
Yet the people of Fréjus have never forgotten their compatriot. For the bicentenary of the Revolution, the city of Fréjus commissioned a bronze and slate statue from the sculptor Polska, thus paying tribute to one of its most illustrious children, whose legacy still resonates today.

Statue Marc-Antoine Desaugiers: singer, poet, gossip and vaudevillian

Marc-Antoine-Madeleine Désaugiers was born on November 17, 1772 in Fréjus. Known for his light and satirical works, he left his mark on the Parisian scene at the beginning of the XNUMXth century. Director of the Théâtre des Variétés, he composed many popular songs that reflected the spirit of his time. His humor and talent for parody made him an essential figure in French culture. Desaugiers remains a symbol of the literary elegance of the post-revolutionary period.  

Quote “Everywhere… happiness is laughing at everything.”

Door to the Atlanteans

Discover the majestic Porte aux Atlantes, located on rue Sieyès, a sculptural treasure of Fréjus which seduces with its imposing beauty and its mythological roots. 
Inspired by ancient stories, this door embodies the strength and mystery of the Atlanteans, these legendary giants condemned to support the sky. 
Both powerful and elegant, their figures engraved on the pillars captivate and transport visitors into a universe where art and mythology meet. 
A must-see for those who want to experience the ancient soul of Fréjus.

Four Seasons Hotel

With its intact 18th century charm^e century, the Hôtel des Quatre Saisons embodies the elegance of period houses.
Built around 1740 for César-François de Suffret, lieutenant of the Admiralty of Fréjus, it then became an inn which welcomed a particularly prestigious visitor: Pope Pius VII, then a prisoner of Napoleon's soldiers.
Its façade, decorated with finely sculpted mascarons, still whispers today the secrets of a rich and fascinating past.

Arena Hotel

A true haven of peace in the heart of the historic center, the Hotel l'Aréna actually follows in the footsteps of previous establishments that welcomed the great and the good of this world. It was in this hotel that General Bonaparte, returning from his famous Egyptian campaign, stopped before heading to Paris where he carried out his coup d'état barely a month later.

Ironically, it was also in this establishment that Pope Pius VII, just released from the captivity imposed on him by Napoleon, stayed when he set off to return to Italy.

Chapel of Saint Francis of Paule

The Saint-François de Paule Chapel, built in 1560 by the Minims order, radiates a mystical and historical aura. 
Dedicated to Saint François de Paule, this chapel is much more than a building: it is a tribute to the saint who saved Fréjus from the plague in 1481. Since this miracle, the town has perpetuated his memory every year, celebrating him on the third Sunday after Easter, with its Bravade.
Listed as a historical monument, this 1993th-century Gothic chapel stands out for its simplicity and timeless charm. Its wide nave, discreet bell tower and contemporary stained glass windows, installed during the XNUMX restoration, invite contemplation. 
A true sanctuary where history and faith continue to resonate, forever marking the heritage of Fréjus.