This 33-meter-high chimney is ¾ Cassis stone and the remaining ¼ brick. It is a listed historic monument. Access is via the Parking du Bestouan.
Located at the end of the Bestouan cove, this ironworks is an example of Second Empire industrial archaeology. It represents an attempt at “waterside steelmaking”, long before Fos-sur-Mer.
The land was purchased in May 1856 by Louis Voulland, a mining engineer, and Félix Roger, a Marseille merchant who also owned a mine in Spain. The location, accessible by boat, was ideal for a factory.
Construction began in the summer of 1856, using materials from the nearby quarry. Of the three blast furnaces planned, only one was completed by 1857, when imperial authorization was given. But the economic crisis reduced demand for cast iron and increased costs, complicating operations.
In 1858, Louis Voulland resigned, and the factory closed in 1861. It was sold in 1862 and dismantled between 1862 and 1866. Today, a few remnants remain, including a 33-meter-high chimney made of Cassis stone and brick.
This remarkable site, steeped in local history, is due to be refurbished. Consideration is currently being given to its final destination. Eventually, it could be used as a “théâtre de verdure” or an auditorium, highlighting the building's remains, to host a program of renowned artists and high-quality shows, and as a place of remembrance to showcase the trades of yesteryear, particularly those based around Cassis stone.
The land was purchased in May 1856 by Louis Voulland, a mining engineer, and Félix Roger, a Marseille merchant who also owned a mine in Spain. The location, accessible by boat, was ideal for a factory.
Construction began in the summer of 1856, using materials from the nearby quarry. Of the three blast furnaces planned, only one was completed by 1857, when imperial authorization was given. But the economic crisis reduced demand for cast iron and increased costs, complicating operations.
In 1858, Louis Voulland resigned, and the factory closed in 1861. It was sold in 1862 and dismantled between 1862 and 1866. Today, a few remnants remain, including a 33-meter-high chimney made of Cassis stone and brick.
This remarkable site, steeped in local history, is due to be refurbished. Consideration is currently being given to its final destination. Eventually, it could be used as a “théâtre de verdure” or an auditorium, highlighting the building's remains, to host a program of renowned artists and high-quality shows, and as a place of remembrance to showcase the trades of yesteryear, particularly those based around Cassis stone.
Rates
Rates
Free access.
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Openings
Openings
All year 2025 - Open everyday
