Palais Longchamp and its history

CULTURE
11/02/2025 - 5 min read
Palais Longchamp and its history


The Palais Longchamp, inaugurated in 1869, is a 19th-century neoclassical building located in the 4th arrondissement of Marseille. A true architectural gem, it reflects the city's rich historical heritage and urban development. Designed to celebrate the arrival of water from the Durance River via the Marseille canal, it is now a key asset in Marseille's real estate landscape.

This water palace includes:

  • A central pavilion, serving as a reservoir and monumental fountain, adorned with allegorical statues representing fertility and abundance.
  • The Museum of Fine Arts, housed in the left wing.
  • The Natural History Museum, located in the right wing.
  • A public garden with ponds and waterfalls, ideal for families and nature lovers, as well as a former zoological park now enhanced with animal sculptures.
  • A botanical garden and the Marseille Observatory at the rear.

The architect Henri Espérandieu, who was also responsible for the Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, was chosen to carry out this project after several proposals were rejected, including those of the sculptor Auguste Bartholdi. His neoclassical style, characterized by a semicircular colonnade, monumental staircases, and a richly sculpted triumphal arch, gives this site a unique prestige.

Listed as a historic monument, the Palais Longchamp offers an exceptional living environment that attracts both tourists and future residents looking for a vibrant and emblematic neighborhood. Its strategic location, served by the metro and tramway, makes it a sought-after area where real estate investment is particularly attractive. Nearby, one can find Haussmann-style apartments with high ceilings, character buildings, and modern residences offering optimal comfort.

Whether you are looking for a property with a view of this monument or a neighborhood rich in history and greenery, the Palais Longchamp district represents a rare opportunity in the Marseille real estate market. An ideal living environment for lovers of heritage, tranquility, and the authentic Marseille spirit.