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Palais Longchamp Marseille
Palais Longchamp in Marseille
Palais Longchamp Marseille
The Palais Longchamp is a symbolic monument in Marseille, built from 1862 to commemorate the arrival of water from the Durance canal in the city.
This event marks a major turning point in Marseille’s history, which had previously suffered from significant water shortages. The construction of the canal and the Palais Longchamp is thus part of a profound transformation of the city in the 19th century.
A palace dedicated to water, arts and sciences
Henry-Jacques Espérandieu, architect of great monuments such as Notre-Dame de la Garde and the Nouvelle Major, was entrusted with creating a palace celebrating water, the arts and the sciences.
The works gave rise to a monumental complex made up of:
- a water tower surrounded by cascades
- a Museum of Natural History
- a Museum of Fine Arts
- two gardens
Water is staged through a spectacular composition, making the Palais Longchamp one of the finest water towers in Europe.
A site marked by history and its changes
The gardens of the Palais Longchamp were once home to one of the first French zoological gardens. Closed in 1987, it housed many species: elephants, lions, tigers, giraffes and even polar bears.
These animals were housed in enclosures that were renovated for Marseille Provence 2013. The park later hosted the “Z’animaux” of Funny Zoo as part of this cultural event.
During the same period, the site underwent major restoration works, notably in 2011, to recover its original appearance as it was at its inauguration in 1869.
These renovations concerned:
- the sculptures
- the facades
- the ironwork
- all the decorative elements
Listed as a historic monument in 1999 and considered one of the finest water towers in Europe, the Palais Longchamp is today a major site of Marseille’s heritage.
A scientific and cultural site
The site is also home to the Marseille Observatory, the city’s oldest scientific institution.
The ANDROMEDE association organises there:
- exhibitions
- conferences
- sky observations
- planetarium sessions
An accessible visit during your stay in Marseille
If you wish to visit it, the Palais Longchamp is located at the top of Boulevard Longchamp, just a few minutes from Saint-Charles station.
Getting there from your New Hotel properties in Marseille
From New Hotel Le Quai – Vieux Port
about 10 to 15 minutes by transport — access via metro or tram
From New Hotel of Marseille
about 15 to 20 minutes by car
Practical information
Palais Longchamp Marseille — 13004 Marseille
Phone: 04 91 55 25 51
Marseille Observatory – ANDROMEDE association
Entrance Place Rafer – Boulevard Cassini — 13004 Marseille
Phone: 04 13 55 21 55
Free access to the park — Museums accessible according to opening hours
FAQ – Palais Longchamp Marseille
Why was the Palais Longchamp built?
To celebrate the arrival of water from the Durance canal in Marseille, a major event for the city.
Can you visit the museums at the Palais Longchamp?
Yes, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Natural History are open to the public according to opening hours.
How much time should I allow for the visit?
About 1 to 2 hours to enjoy the park, the museums and the monument.
Is the site suitable for a walk?
Yes, the gardens of the Palais Longchamp are very popular for relaxing and strolling.
