Statue of David
In Marseille, it's called "the David." The replica of the famous sculpture is a symbol that evokes summer, beaches. It's a landmark to find the sea and meet friends. Not far from the beach, it overlooks the Prado roundabout.
A bit of history about the statue of David
Few people know that this statue, commonly referred to as "The David," is a replica of Michelangelo's famous work. Dating back to the 16th century, it was made of Carrara marble. You can actually admire the original at the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence, Italy.
This statue differs from the usual representations of David. He is commonly depicted with Goliath to symbolize their famous battle. It is recounted in the Bible, in the book of Samuel, to illustrate the victory of a simple shepherd who, through his faith and courage, defeated a ruthless giant over 3 meters tall. The sculpture immortalizes David before his battle, with the famous slingshot in his hand. The statue was sculpted and donated to the city by the marble worker and sculptor Jules Cantini in 1903. However, it was not installed in its current location until the 1950s.
Marseillais, he is not the only one in his family to have been immersed in art and sculpture. His father, an Italian-born mason, had demolished the aqueduct of the Porte d'Aix and his brother Pierre has his own decorative sculpture workshop on Rue des Beaux Arts. After his brother's death, he took over his brother's workshop and received numerous commissions. His talent was quickly recognized, and he was brought in, among other things, to participate in the construction of Notre Dame de la Garde and La Major Cathedral.
The statue of David : a gathering point for the people of Marseille
David specifically strikes a pose in the 8th arrondissement of Marseille, on the roundabout of Prado, at the intersection between Promenade Georges Pompidou, Avenue Pierre Mendès France, and Avenue du Prado. Standing at 4 meters tall, it is the perfect gathering point.
In Marseille, people meet at David. Located in Prado, not far from the beaches, it is the landmark that announces the sea, the beach, swimming, but also surfing sessions…
Interested in visiting Marseille? Why not explore Marseille's history in a different way: bike rental, Petit Train de Marseille, or even segway rental? To purchase tickets, we recommend visiting the ticket office to avoid waiting in line, especially during the summer.
