CHÂTEAU BORÉLY (AN)

Where are we? 132 Avenue Clot Bey, 13008  

Historical and chronological situation: transition between the modern age and the industrial revolution 

Introduction: The Château Borély dates from the 18th century and is located in the Bonneveine district of Marseille. Since 2013, this historical monument, named in 1936, is considered as the Museum of Decorative Arts, Earthenware and Fashion. 

History: Louis Borély was a famous merchant from the city of Marseille who, in 1755, on his return from one of his journeys, ordered the construction of a family estate in the place where we find ourselves today. On this land, he decided to build a castle and put it in the hands of the architect Charles-Louis Clérisseau.   

The structure of the castle is divided into three floors, two pavilions, a large courtyard and a porch at the back of the building. Especially in the main building there are many rooms decorated with rich ornaments and there is even a private chapel.  

The castle has had several heirs over the years, who have referred to it as a summer residence. 

Once the building became the property of the city, the city council decided to conserve it and install an archaeological museum, which was kept there until 1989.  

Finally, after several restorations, the castle was reopened in 2013 and now serves as a museum and exhibition hall for fashion and decorative arts.  

Official website: www.marseille.fr