The forts of Marseille to visit

Marseille, a city of history and traditions, is full of hidden treasures. Set off to discover its iconic fortifications, true witnesses to the tumultuous past of this port city.

Fort Saint-Jean: the sentinel of the Old Port

Located on the right bank of the Old Port, Fort Saint-Jean is a strong symbol of Marseille’s history. It is part of a military complex that served as a departure point for the Crusaders to Jerusalem as early as the 12th century. The Hospitallers of Saint John, a religious brotherhood, established their commandery there, which included a chapel, a hospital, and a palace. This fort was completed in 1365, during the reign of René of Anjou, who had an imposing square tower built to defend the port from potential invaders.

A strategic watchtower

In 1664, Marseille shipowners reinforced Fort Saint-Jean by adding a lookout tower, visible from over 20 km at sea. This strategic position allowed for the anticipation of threats from the sea and facilitated the spotting of merchant ships. Under the orders of Louis XIV, the fort was renovated and isolated from the rest of the city following a local rebellion. The military engineer Vauban, famous for his fortifications, ordered the creation of a moat surrounding the fort, definitively marking the separation between the fort and the city.

Fort Saint-Jean
© kristinabaltaci

A place of culture and discovery

Today, Fort Saint-Jean is a lively place where culture and history meet. This monument is connected to the Mucem, the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations, by an impressive aerial walkway. This architectural and cultural union offers an exceptional view of the port and the city. Visitors can discover captivating exhibitions and stroll in a unique setting.
Address: Promenade Louis Brauquier – 13002 Marseille

Fort Saint-Nicolas: between power and symbolism

On the opposite side, on the left bank of the Old Port, stands the Fort Saint-Nicolas, built to ensure the domination of the Sun King over a rebellious city. This fort, erected in 1660, was intended not only to protect the harbor of Marseille from maritime attacks but also to remind the people of Marseille of royal authority. The fort stands majestically near the Saint-Victor Abbey and overlooks the Pharo gardens, a popular relaxation spot for locals and visitors alike.

Fort Saint-Nicolas
© Ville de Marseille

A rapid construction for Louis XIV

The construction of Fort Saint-Nicolas took only four years, an achievement for that time! The strategic location on a height overlooking the harbor allowed for a clear view of the comings and goings of ships. During the French Revolution, the people of Marseille, suspicious of this symbol of authority, began its destruction. However, the National Assembly halted the demolition, keen to preserve this historic fortress.

A fort with two faces

Fort Saint-Nicolas now consists of two parts: Fort Ganteaume, facing the sea, which houses the military club, and Fort d’Entrecasteaux, situated on land. Classified as a historical monument in 1969, the fort allows visitors to climb its ramparts for an unmatched panoramic view of Marseille. As one strolls, one can see the grey stones that contrast with the pink stones of origin, a nod to its renovated past.

Address: 2 Boulevard Charles Livon – 13007 Marseille

A stroll between two emblematic fortresses

Marseille invites its visitors to dive into the fascinating history of its fortifications. The Fort Saint-Jean and the Fort Saint-Nicolas are two must-sees, offering an immersion into the city’s military and maritime past. Whether you are passionate about history or a fan of spectacular views, these forts represent an unmissable stop for any traveler curious to discover the soul of Marseille.

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