PALAIS LONGCHAMP (AN)

Where are we? Boulevard Jardin Zoologique, 13004  

Historical and chronological situation: Neoclassical - Second Empire 

Introduction:  The Longchamps Palace also known as the Water Castle was designed by the architect Henry Espérandieu and its main objective was to celebrate the end of the difficulties of Marseille caused by the lack of water. 

History: Since 16th century, the idea of creating a canal emerged. It would allow Marseille to supply itself with the water from the Durance river. However, this need does not become vitally important until the 19th century, when the cholera epidemic worsens the Marseille situation regarding water. For all these reasons, the canal began to be built in 1839. A few years later, in 1862, in order to celebrate the arrival of these waters, the Longchamps Palace was created, an architectural jewel that highly values the element of water through its architecture and composition. For example, this is seen in the central fountain and in the numerous sculptures that evoke the abundance and fertility that the canal waters would bring to the city. 

In 1869, the monument that served as water storage and the associated channels and aqueducts were completed and inaugurated, which allowed the city of Marseille to expand thanks to the new access to water, building new districts. 

Currently, the palace also includes the Fine Arts Museum on the left wing and the Natural History Museum on the right wing. Also at the back of the monument, there are some beautiful gardens that previously were a zoo. 

Official website: There isn’t http://www.marseille-tourisme.com/en/discover-marseille/heritage/the-palais-longchamp/