The Promenade des Anglais, in Nice, is one of the most famous places in the world. But why do you call it that ?

A vacation spot during the winter period

The Promenade des Anglais is probably one of the places that has contributed the most to the tourist influence of the city of Nice. This seaside avenue attracts a large number of tourists and locals every year in search of picturesque landscapes and a moment of relaxation. Discover with Belambra the history of the Promenade des Anglais and its evolution over the years. The origin of the Promenade des Anglais dates back to the beginning of the 18th century. During this period, many European aristocrats began to choose the city of Nice as their preferred vacation spot during the winter period. Nice having a mild climate while offering the possibility to the aristocrats of not changing anything in their usual way of life, they settled en masse on the coast of Nice in opulent houses.

the Reverend Lewis Way,

The arrival of aristocrats greatly contributed to the economic development and improved visibility of the city of Nice. Among all the nationalities that met at the rhythm of social evenings in Nice, the English were relatively numerous. It is also to one of them, the Reverend Lewis Way, that we owe the creation of the famous Promenades des Anglais. In 1821, he carried out, with the help of his relatives, a fundraiser from his compatriots. This money will be used to finance the construction of the famous seaside road but also to provide work for many beggars and workers in Nice who were suffering from a bad economic situation during this period. In 1824, when the work was completed, the coast of Nice now had a path conducive to peaceful walks, the “Strada del littorale. It quickly gained popularity and became a must-visit tourist spot. The people of Nice, however, quickly got into the habit of calling it “el Camin dei Ingles“, namely, the Promenade des Anglais. This is the name that history will officially remember when Nice was annexed by France in 1860.

Famous chairs

Since its creation in the 19th century, the Promenade des Anglais has evolved while retaining its initial charm, making this tourist spot a place of exchange and leisure dear to the people of Nice. In 1950, many wooden chairs created by Charles Tordo, employed in a train maintenance company, were scattered along the promenade so that walkers could sit and contemplate the Baie des Anges at their leisure. These chairs have gradually become a true symbol of the city of Nice and have contributed to giving a little more charm to this already beautifully landscaped seaside. At present, these chairs with their old-fashioned charm can only be found in front of the Hôtel le Negresco. However, these are not the original models which are kept in a museum.