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Fort Saint-Nicolas

Fort Saint-Nicolas is a military citadel built between 1660 and 1664 on the orders of Louis XIV under the direction of the Chevalier de Clerville, with the dual purpose of protecting Marseille from seaborne attack and keeping watch over the local population. Its defences were partly oriented towards the city rather than the sea. During the French Revolution, the people of Marseille tried to demolish it, but the National Assembly ordered the destruction halted, and restoration work was carried out that is still distinguishable by the use of grey stone alongside the original pink stone. In 1860, the opening of Boulevard Charles Livon split it into two parts: Fort Ganteaume, on the sea side, and Fort d'Entrecasteaux, on the land side. The fort also served as a prison until the end of the Second World War. Since 2021, the association La Citadelle de Marseille has managed Fort d'Entrecasteaux, which is partly open to the public, offering guided tours, cultural events and panoramic views over the Vieux-Port, the Mucem and Notre-Dame de la Garde.

Things to do at Fort Saint-Nicolas: 2 missions

• Attend the soirées dansantes at Fort Saint-NicolasEnjoy the soirées dansantes held at the site.
• Take guided tours at Fort Saint-NicolasTake part in the guided tours offered to learn about the citadel's history and strategic importance.

Near Fort Saint-Nicolas