Porte d'Aix
The Porte d'Aix is adorned with a monumental triumphal arch. Conceived since the Ancien Régime, it has undergone numerous modifications throughout the history of Marseille.
THE MARSEILLAISE TRIUMPHAL ARCH
The project to erect a triumphal arch in Marseille dates back to the Ancien Régime. In 1784, the aldermen of the city decided to build a triumphal arch in honor of King Louis XVI and to celebrate the end of the War of Independence of the United States. The location of the Porte d'Aix was chosen, corresponding to the North gate of the ramparts. However, construction was delayed due to indecision within the municipality.
The beginnings of the construction of the Arc de Triomphe at Porte d'Aix
Eventually, during the French Revolution, the project was abandoned. But the idea resurfaced in 1823 at the initiative of the Marquis de Montgrand, then mayor of Marseille, to pay tribute to the exploits of the Duke of Angoulême in Spain and his victory at the Trocadéro. The first stone was laid two years later, on November 6, 1825, after the development of Place Jules-Guesde, located across the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd arrondissements. The Arc de la Porte d'Aix was finally completed in 1839, just three years after the one at the Étoile in Paris.
Architecture of the arc de triomphe at Porte d'Aix
In its shape, the monument recalls the Arch of Titus, with harmonious dimensions of about 18 meters high and ornamental sculptures. On the façades and sides, there are representations of the battles of Austerlitz, Fleurus, and Heliopolis. Statues almost three meters high were installed, but due to the friable stone, they disintegrated and eventually fell onto the public road in 1937.
A marble plaque sealed on the foundations reads: "This triumphal arch was voted on October 17, 1823, by the city of Marseille to give a brilliant tribute to the glory acquired in Spain by the French army and its illustrious leader, H.R.H. the Duke of Angoulême, since Dauphin of France. His Majesty Louis XVIII, of glorious memory, allowed by royal decree of December 30, 1823, the erection of a monument of love and gratitude towards his august family." Through the vicissitudes of the History of Marseille, the tributes vary; the Republic and the Empire each left their mark.
The arc de triomphe and the Porte d'Aix
Today, the neighborhood has fallen into neglect but has recently become the subject of a renovation program as part of Euro-Mediterranean initiatives. The Autoroute du Soleil, which opened directly onto the square since 1979, has been diverted to open up the neighborhood and redevelop it, including green spaces. This monument in Marseille has been classified as a Historic Monument since 1982. The nearby "market of the sun" is a true traditional Oriental souk and is visited by many tourists. In continuation of the popular and commercial district of Belsunce, take a stroll to the Porte d'Aix for a taste of Marseille with Oriental flavors. And why not opt for a Segway rental to explore Marseille differently? This activity will delight both young and old! For the more traditional, many bike rental points are accessible throughout the city to allow you to move around easily.
Finally, the Little Train of Marseille, perfect for families, invites you to follow several circuits for guided tours of the different neighborhoods of the Phocaean City. If you're interested, the ticket office is located on the Old Port.
