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Palais Monthyon: Marseille's Neoclassical Courthouse

Discover the Palais Monthyon in Marseille, a stunning neoclassical courthouse with a rich history and impressive architecture, located on the vibrant Place Monthyon.

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The Palais Monthyon, also known as the Palais de Justice, is a prominent neoclassical building in Marseille's 6th arrondissement. Constructed between 1856 and 1862, it replaced the former Palais de Justice on Place Daviel. Designed by architect Auguste Martin, the building features a grand façade with a peristyle of six Ionic columns and a triangular fronton adorned with sculptures representing Justice, Force, Prudence, and Innocence. The Palais Monthyon stands as a significant example of Second Empire architecture and continues to serve as a courthouse, playing a vital role in the city's legal system. Its location on Place Monthyon makes it easily accessible and a notable landmark in the area, surrounded by a vibrant city center. The building is near the Old Port and other attractions, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in architecture and history.

A brief summary to Palais Monthyon

  • Monday 8 am-12 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-12 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-12 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-12 pm
  • Friday 8 am-12 pm

Local tips

  • Admire the sculptures on the fronton, representing Justice, Force, Prudence, Crime, and Innocence, created by Eugène Guillaume.
  • Visit the nearby Place Monthyon to appreciate the building's architecture from a distance and enjoy the esplanade's ambiance.
  • Take public transportation to the Estrangin Préfecture metro station for easy access to the Palais Monthyon.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Palais Monthyon is easily accessible via Marseille's public transportation network. From the Gare Saint-Charles, take Metro Line 1 towards La Rose and get off at Estrangin-Préfecture station. From there, it's a short walk to Place Monthyon. A single ticket costs €1.70 and is valid for 60 minutes on buses, trams, and the metro. You can purchase tickets at vending machines in the metro station or use a contactless credit card directly at the entrance.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the city center, such as near the Vieux-Port (Old Port), you can walk to the Palais Monthyon. Head south along the Quai de Rive Neuve, then turn right onto Cours Pierre Puget. Continue straight until you reach Place Monthyon, where the Palais de Justice is located. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes and offers views of the city. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available in Marseille. A taxi ride from the Gare Saint-Charles to the Palais Monthyon typically costs between €10 and €15, depending on traffic. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or check the app estimate before starting your journey. Taxi ranks are located outside the train station and in various locations throughout the city.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Place Monthyon in the 6th arrondissement. Parking is available at the Parking Monthyon, an underground car park located beneath the esplanade. The entrance is on Rue Breteuil. Hourly parking rates are approximately €2.40, with a daily rate of around €15.50. Keep in mind that traffic in the city center can be heavy, especially during peak hours.

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Discover more about Palais Monthyon

The Palais Monthyon, also called the Palais de Justice, is a majestic structure located on Place Monthyon in Marseille's 6th arrondissement. This courthouse, a significant example of neoclassical architecture, has been an integral part of the city's legal system since its construction in the mid-19th century. The Palais Monthyon was built between 1856 and 1862, designed by the architect Auguste Martin. It replaced the older Palais de Justice, which had become too small for the city's needs. The location chosen for the new courthouse was Place Monthyon, named after Jean-Baptiste de Montyon, an intendant of Provence in the 18th century. The site was previously part of the Arsenal des Galères, adding a layer of historical significance to the location. The architecture of the Palais Monthyon is in line with the Palais de Justice built during the Second Empire, showcasing a classical design. The building measures 57 meters in length and 54 meters in width. The main façade features a grand stoop of 25 steps leading to a peristyle of six Ionic columns. Above the columns, a triangular fronton displays sculptures by Eugène Guillaume, representing Justice flanked by Force and Prudence, with Crime and Innocence in the corners. The rear façade, facing Rue Grignan, is less ornate but includes a fronton with sculpted Napoleonic arms and lions. The interior of the Palais Monthyon is equally impressive. The Salle des Pas Perdus, or hall of lost steps, is a square space with 16 red Languedoc marble columns supporting a gallery on the first floor. The arches are decorated with sculptures by François Gilbert, representing the qualities of magistrates: Force, Equity, Reason, Law, Liberty, Authority, Truth, and Eloquence. Throughout its history, the Palais Monthyon has undergone several renovations and restorations. In 1933, architect Gaston Castel added an annex to the building. More recently, from 2013 to 2015, the courthouse was closed for extensive renovations to improve its functionality and security while preserving its historical character. During this period, the court's operations were temporarily moved to the Caserne du Muy. Today, the Palais Monthyon continues to serve as a courthouse, housing various courts and legal offices. Its central location makes it easily accessible by public transportation and surrounded by other notable landmarks and attractions. Visitors can admire the building's architecture from Place Monthyon, a spacious esplanade with a large basin and trees. While public access to the interior may be restricted due to security measures, the Palais Monthyon remains a significant cultural and historical landmark in Marseille. The Palais Monthyon stands as a testament to Marseille's rich history and architectural heritage. Its neoclassical design, intricate sculptures, and historical significance make it a must-see for anyone interested in the city's cultural landmarks. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a traveler looking to explore Marseille's iconic sites, the Palais Monthyon offers a glimpse into the city's past and present.

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