Fréjus, between heritage and modernity, a city on the move

Fréjus, a city with many facets, combines heritage and modernity. Its past still resonates in its streets, while it flourishes in a dynamic future. Its contemporary heritage, marked by major milestones, bears witness to its roots in time. Here, the past and the future intersect.

Cocteau Chapel Frejus

Fréjus

A city in evolution, between imperial heritage and modernity

In the 19th century, Fréjus stood out for its links with imperial power.

In 1799, General Bonaparte, returning from Egypt, found refuge in a hotel in the city, leaving his mark.

1814: Napoleon, Emperor, made a final stop there before his exile on the island of Elba, highlighting the strategic importance of Fréjus.

In the following centuries, the city became a tourist and military crossroads.

In 1882, the seaside resort of Saint-Aygulf developed, attracting the first holidaymakers and ushering in the modern era.

1911: Fréjus becomes a key military base with the creation of the naval air base, influencing the evolution of military strategy.

In 1913, Roland Garros left Fréjus to cross the Mediterranean, placing the city in the history of aeronautics.

1920: the Fréjus-Plage district was created.

In 1944, during the landing in Provence, its beaches were the scene of a decisive assault, a defining moment in contemporary history.

In 1959, the Malpasset dam tragedy struck the city, but Fréjus recovered, stronger.

The following decades witnessed its adaptation to modernity, while respecting its heritage.

In 1978, the arrival of the 4th Marine Infantry Regiment, followed by the 21st in 1980, confirmed the military role of the city.

In 1989, the creation of the Port-Fréjus basin reinforced the importance of the port and marked the town's desire to modernize while remaining faithful to its history.

Malpasset Dam drone

Fréjus, although shaped by its many transformations, never loses its character. 

Its Roman past continues to nourish its identity, and the city still stands out for its ability to evolve while preserving the memory of its ancestors. 

It is this strength of history, combined with contemporary heritage, which gives Fréjus its unique and vibrant character, a city which reinvents itself without ever denying its roots.

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