The Savonnerie du Midi

The soap museum of Marseille : history and practical information

Return to the roots of this exceptional product by visiting the Savonnerie du Midi, and treat yourself to a journey back in time.

Marseille Soap, Indispensable to the History of the Phocaean City

The Savonnerie du Midi is one of the oldest and last remaining soap manufacturers in Marseille. Marseille soap was more than an institution for us. With nearly 130 soap factories in the Phocaean city in the 1920s, centuries of know-how, and a unique product recognized worldwide.

However, disaster struck! The post-war period marked the decline of this gem in Marseille's history. The advent of washing machines, for which the ancient soap was not suitable, industrial and chemical techniques. The decline seemed inevitable, mirroring the city's industrial decline.

Then came another scourge, that of counterfeiting, with these multicolored soaps stamped "Marseille soap" but manufactured in China or Turkey. As a result, only three soap factories remain in Marseille that continue to use traditional techniques.

But far from giving up, the old Marseille soap still has something to say. Gradually, the public is becoming interested in it again, attracted by this authentic, effective, and above all, perfectly ecological product. This is of particular importance today. Furthermore, during the COVID crisis that affected us all, Marseille soap was in the spotlight thanks to its hygienic virtues. It also proved to be very effective in destroying the virus.

Antiseptic, our soap is also hypoallergenic, suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive. This is not the case with hydroalcoholic gel, which is expensive and aggressive on the skin. And there is no risk of stock shortage unlike hydroalcoholic gel! A simple, economical solution to protect yourself and slow down the epidemic while consuming locally in Marseille. If that's not the ideal solution!

THE MUSEUM OF MARSEILLE SOAP, TO BETTER KNOW ITS HISTORY AND CITY

Visiting the Museum of Marseille Soap in the Savonnerie du Midi is a journey back into the city's industrial past. Located in the heart of Aygalades, the place was successively occupied by a mill, a mill, and a soap factory before the company moved in. It was previously located in the XIVth arrondissement.

Through 3 permanent exhibition halls, visitors will be taken on a journey through time, from the first soap makers in Marseille to the present day. Passing through all the major milestones of this epic, which includes historical figures such as Colbert or Napoleon. It is also an opportunity to discover one of the largest private collections on Marseille Soap with advertising items, photographs, machines, soaps from the period, and everything related to this legendary object.

The tour continues with a visit to the manufacturing workshops, which immerse us in the heart of this traditional and ancestral process passed down from master soap maker to apprentice, in an uninterrupted chain of transmission since its origins. An achievement when you consider that there are no studies or diplomas to practice this profession. The role of soap factories is crucial here, without them, this knowledge would be lost forever. Because making soap is not like following a recipe and pressing a button. No. Master soap makers speak of soap as a living material. You have to taste the paste to see if there is too much lye, if water needs to be added. Thus, each cauldron made is different from the previous one.

At the end of the visit, you will find a factory shop with all the products in the range designed by the Savonnerie du Midi. There is something for every taste and every use. Whether it's for washing dishes, floors, or laundry (750 g of Marseille Soap flakes are enough to do more than 250 loads!). All products with Marseille Soap are certified by the Ecocert label. They are also organic, as they only use natural ingredients, and are also economical. So, I told you, there are only good reasons to visit the Savonnerie du Midi.

Guided tours for individuals Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 10:30 a.m.

Reservation required: musee@savonneriedumidi.fr or 04 91 60 54 04

All useful information here: https://www.savonneriedumidi.fr/informations-pratiques/

What is the price of the different soaps from the Savonnerie du Midi?

The Savonnerie du Midi, under the La Corvette brand, offers a variety of Marseille soaps, famous for their quality and traditional manufacturing. The products are available in several forms: cubes, flakes, and bars, and come in different specifications: olive, extra pure, and organic.

For example, the cubes of olive or extra pure soap are offered in lots of 8x300g at a promotional price of €27.00, offering an economical option for lovers of natural products. Soap cubes are appreciated for their versatile use, both for the body and for laundry. For those who prefer certified organic products, the 300g organic olive soap cube is available without packaging at €5.40, highlighting La Corvette's commitment to the environment and quality. Soap flakes, ideal for laundry, are available in extra pure and olive mix, with a batch of 5x750g at €40.00, allowing for ecological and economical use. Finally, soap bars, like the 900g olive bar, are offered at €17.50, offering a practical solution for extended use. Each type of soap is designed without colorants, fragrances, preservatives, or synthetic additives, ensuring an authentic and natural experience.

These prices reflect La Corvette's commitment to providing authentic and environmentally friendly products, while remaining accessible to a wide clientele.

Where to find real Marseille soap and how to recognize it?

To find authentic Marseille soap and ensure its authenticity, the most reliable method is to examine its composition. Authentic Marseille soap is distinguished by its simplicity, containing only four essential ingredients: vegetable oils, soda, water, and salt. These basic components guarantee not only quality but also the tradition behind this emblematic product of Provence.

To be certain of buying a soap that respects traditional manufacturing methods, it is advisable to turn to products from the workshops of the four Soap Companions: Savonnerie Fer à Cheval, Savonnerie Marius Fabre, Savonnerie du Midi, and Savonnerie Le Sérail. These four soap factories, united under the banner of the Soap Companions or since 2011 the UPSM (Union des Professionnels du Savon de Marseille), are committed to protecting and promoting the historical know-how of master soap makers. Their commitment ensures that the soaps produced meet the strict criteria of quality and authenticity that have made Marseille soap famous worldwide, particularly through composition, manufacturing process, and geographical origin.