Fort d'Entrecasteaux, Saint Nicolas - La Citadelle

A relic of the past and an integral part of Marseille’s heritage, Fort Saint-Nicolas is a must-see site that still tells the city’s story through its imposing stones. Construction Built on the orders of Louis XIV between 1660 and 1664 by the Chevalier de Clerville, Fort d’Entrecasteaux was intended not only to monitor the city and the Marseille residents who were hostile to it, but also to protect it against attacks from the sea. The king was determined to have a citadel built in the “most suitable” location in the city. Stones from the former Porte Royale and from Cap Couronne were used in its construction. It consists of a double-walled fortification system, complete with moats and bastions, and illustrates the need to adapt to attacks by firearms. Beyond its defensive purpose, this structure indirectly bears witness to the evolution of the art of war and weaponry. Demolition and Redevelopment During the French Revolution, the people of Marseille, concerned about the threat the fort might pose, began to demolish it. The National Assembly ordered a halt to the demolition in order to preserve this defensive structure. Restoration work began, and the grayish stone used in the restoration contrasts sharply with the pink stone used in the past. In 1860, during the construction of the imperial residence (the Palais du Pharo), Fort Saint-Nicolas was cut in two to allow vehicular traffic on Boulevard Charles Livon, which connects the Old Port to the Pharo district. Today, still divided into two parts, the fort consists of a section facing the sea—Fort Ganteaume—and another on the landward side—Fort d’Entrecasteaux. Functions In 1823, following the Duke of Angoulême’s expedition to Spain, numerous prisoners were held at the fort. A few years later, in 1832, it was also used as a detention center for the sailors from the Duchess of Berry’s ship. Fort Saint-Nicolas remained a prison until the end of World War II. The Citadelle de Marseille: A Heritage “Third Place” for Creativity and Innovation Since 2021, the city of Marseille has entrusted the management of Fort d’Entrecasteaux (Saint-Nicolas) to the association “La Citadelle de Marseille.” Its mission is to restore and transform this defensive military fort into a place of life, sharing, and culture—a heritage “third place” for creativity and innovation—and to reconnect citizens with their history and heritage through a sustainable and inclusive approach. Admire the view, enjoy a drink, immerse yourself in the fascinating history of this site and its restoration through tours and workshops, learn about the ecology of the soil and plant species, and experience cultural events in a setting unique to Marseille. Fort Entrecasteaux consists of two interlocking enclosures whose quadrangular layout clings to the escarpment. The quality of the masonry—large blocks of pink limestone from La Couronne—and its construction (corner ties with bossages and a cordon course creating arabesques of counter-curves along the slopes) combine to create an impression of serene power. This upper section, which has been undergoing restoration for several years, is now open to visitors and managed by the Citadel of Marseille. The fort was designated a Historic Monument in 1969.