b' 7RUE DUMARCH 40:A DESTINYIt is important to keep the treasures of urban heritagePort du Molard The period facade of(1821)Rue du March 40 (c. 1900)alive; that they be occupied, visited, understood.Historic architecture should be shared with as many people as possible. Restoring a heritage object and A sign of successgiving it new purpose is a chance to see it with new eyes. Rue du March 40 is a sterling example, where theWealthy families of merchants and bankers livedfaade has been restored to its original splendour andto the south of Rue du March which drew a linethe beautiful courtyard is once again open to the public. between the classes.Luxurious Rue du March 40 was a sign of Bonnets Home to Bonnet the banker prosperity, earned largely through trading with Italy,Lyon and England. This prestigious setting was the A buildings history is animated by its successive activities,birthplace of Jean-Jacques grandson, the illustrious different uses, and events that took place there. The occupantsCharles Bonnet who later developed an interest innotoriety leaves its mark, as do different architects influences. the natural sciences, philosophy and education. The destiny of Rue du March 40 began with Jean-JacquesBonnet, a merchant and banker. In 1692 he decided to demolishfive houses to build his own home, facing the Molard. The workwas completed in 1694.In the heart of a commercial hubRUE DU MARCH 40GENEVAThe inland Molard basin was a port at the time. Boats wouldpass under the arcade of a fortified house to unload their goods on the docks. Over time, it became the citys poultry and fish market. In 1690, new covered markets were built. The surroundings buzzed with intense economic activity including customs, bureaux de change and notaries. There were even hotels for the many traders and travellers at the time. Crafts and service trades were booming. They included watchmakers, drapers, potters, publicPlace du Molardwriters, apothecaries and printers. The district is still a thriving(c. 1900)business hub today.Charles Bonnet1720 - 1792'