Les Docks

THE DOCKS AT THE HEART OF MARSEILLE'S MARITIME STRATEGY

The Docks symbolize the period of expansion and prosperity that Marseille experienced in the 19th century. Indeed, the end of Barbary piracy, industrial and technological innovations (such as the invention of steam navigation), and colonial conquests all contributed to stimulating maritime trade and therefore the prosperity of the city. Marseille experienced strong economic and demographic growth during this time. It became necessary to adapt the infrastructure to these new challenges. The construction of the Docks responded to these imperatives and corresponded to an extension of the port towards the north. Marseille, being one of the world's leading ports, had outgrown the Port of Lacydon, which had become too small. Loading and unloading work were made difficult by these conditions.

MARSEILLE DOCKS AND WAREHOUSES COMPANY

In 1853, the municipality finally decided to establish docks on land ceded by the State, the operation of which would be entrusted to a private company. Paulin Talabot, who headed the Marseille Docks and Warehouses Company, managed the docks and was the first to understand that a modern port must be integrated with railway transport. This is how the railway line enters directly into the heart of the docks. The docks were built at Lazaret where it was possible to store 150,000 tons of goods, which could then be transported via the railway line to Lyon or Paris. The young Marseille Docks and Warehouses Company entrusted the work to the young architect Gustave Desplaces. Construction took place from 1858 to 1864.

THE BIRTH OF THE DOCKS

Marseille thus acquired a real port, worthy of its status as the "gateway to the East." The chosen style was directly inspired by the docks of London but had a rather unique feature. The complex comprised 4 warehouses around four courtyards, symbolizing the four seasons. The 52 doors corresponded to the number of weeks, and there were seven levels corresponding to the number of days in a week. The entire building was 365 meters long, like the number of days in a year. The entire structure remained functional until 1988 when the industrial activity of the docks ceased, and the premises were abandoned.

In 1991, SARI bought the Docks. From 1992, work began, and the docks were gradually restored with the aim of respecting the original architecture and preserving a part of Marseille's history intact. Architect Eric Castaldi envisioned the new docks as a Mediterranean agora open to the neighborhood. The focus was on opening up the space; the windows were enlarged, part of the roof was replaced with glass roofs creating atriums. An inner street allows movement from one building to another. Today, everything is completely rehabilitated, and the restored buildings now house administrations, with some 220 companies employing more than 3000 people. The visual appeal is not left out; the interior courtyards are highlighted, and basins make their appearance. The ground floor is occupied by shops, bars, and restaurants, ensuring the conviviality of the place during the day and also in the evening. With the opening of the large shopping center "Les Terrasses du Port," which is located just opposite the Docks, the Joliette district is experiencing a rebirth. Once again, the future of Marseille's metropolis lies in the Docks, attracting people who come to visit Marseille.

The architecture of this atypical building attracts tourists and architecture enthusiasts. Its bars, restaurants, and shops make it a lively place, appreciated by the people of Marseille. You can opt for bike-sharing or Segway rental to get there more quickly!

And for those who want to visit Marseille with family, why not opt for the Petit Train de Marseille? You can explore the streets of the Phocaean City and discover its history. A fun way to discover the monuments of Marseille.