Fort Saint Jean Marseille

The Fort Saint Jean was built in the time of the Crusades in the 12th century. It is now hosting exhibitions all year long.

 

At that time, the Hospitallers of Jerusalem settled their commander there and sent troops to the Holy Land.

After holding the Chapel of Saint Jean Baptiste, the Hospitallers built a new church, a hospital and the Palace of the Governor. The works were completed in 1365.

To strengthen the defense of the port, King René built the Square Tower or "Tower of King René" between 1447 and 1453. In the middle of the 17th century, another tower visible by boats at more than 20km was built in the same purpose. It was called the Round Tower or the "Fanal Tower".

The fort maintained a strictly military role until the French Revolution when it became a state prison. During World War 2, the Germans installed munitions that exploded in 1944, destroying a great part of the fort.

Today, the Fort Saint Jean is open to the public and hosts a large part of the MuCEM's program (Museum of Civilization from Europe and the Mediterranean). It has a documentation centre and offers temporary exhibitions.

 

Our 3-star hotel in Marseille Vieux Port is only a few-minute walk away from this place, in the heart of the city centre. You will find nearby several other iconic places in the city and many shops and restaurants.

 

Practical Information:

Fort Saint Jean - Marseille
Promenade Louis Brauquier
13002 Marseille

Phone: +33 4 91 90 17 05