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Trouée de Vauban: A Glimpse into Marseille's Past

Discover the Trouée de Vauban in Marseille: a historical landmark revealing the city's industrial past, preservation efforts, and stunning panoramic views near Notre-Dame de la Garde.

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The Trouée de Vauban, located in Marseille's 7th arrondissement, offers a unique glimpse into the city's history and its relationship with the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica. This 'gap' in the landscape is a result of extensive quarrying in the early 20th century, which sparked public outcry and ultimately led to the area's preservation. Today, it serves as a poignant reminder of the tensions between industrial progress and the preservation of natural and cultural heritage. The area provides stunning views and access to the Jardin du Bois Sacré, a green space offering respite and panoramic vistas. While not a conventional tourist attraction, the Trouée de Vauban provides a tangible link to Marseille's past, offering a unique perspective on the city's evolution and the ongoing efforts to balance development with conservation. It's a place for reflection, offering both historical insight and scenic beauty, making it a worthwhile stop for those seeking a deeper understanding of Marseille.

A brief summary to Trouée de Vauban

  • 27 Rue du Terrail, Marseille, 13007, FR

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the Jardin du Bois Sacré involves some walking on uneven terrain.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica for a comprehensive experience of the area's history and significance.
  • Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of Marseille and the Mediterranean Sea from the Jardin du Bois Sacré.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Vieux-Port area, take bus line 60 towards Notre-Dame de la Garde. The bus will drop you off near the basilica. From there, it's a short walk to the Trouée de Vauban and the Jardin du Bois Sacré. A single bus fare is approximately €1.70.

  • Walking

    If you are near the Vieux-Port, you can walk to the Trouée de Vauban. Head southwest towards Quai des Belges. Continue along the waterfront until you reach the area around the basilica. From there, follow the signs leading to 'Calanques' and take the scenic route through Avenue de la Corniche. This will lead you to the area around 27 Rue du Terrail. The walk may take about 45 minutes but offers beautiful views along the coast.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from the Vieux-Port to the Trouée de Vauban will cost approximately €15-€20, depending on traffic. The journey takes around 10-15 minutes.

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Discover more about Trouée de Vauban

The Trouée de Vauban, nestled in the 7th arrondissement of Marseille, is more than just a geographical location; it's a living testament to the city's complex history, its industrial past, and the enduring spirit of its people. This distinctive 'gap' or 'breach' in the landscape, dramatically carved into the foothills of Notre-Dame de la Garde, tells a story of ambition, exploitation, public outcry, and eventual preservation. In the early 20th century, the area surrounding Notre-Dame de la Garde was subject to extensive quarrying. Pierre Honoré, a local industrialist, began extracting stone from the hillside in 1905, seeking to capitalize on the demand for building materials. As the years passed, the quarry expanded, relentlessly gnawing away at the landscape and threatening the very foundations of the iconic basilica that stood sentinel above. The once-verdant slopes were transformed into a scarred and barren wasteland, raising alarm among Marseille's residents and heritage advocates. The relentless destruction sparked widespread outrage. Citizens and associations united to protest what they saw as an 'abominable act,' demanding an immediate halt to the quarrying operations. Letters of protest were penned, petitions were circulated, and the issue became a cause célèbre in Marseille. Voices like that of Odysse Richemont, author of 'La légende dorée de Notre-Dame de la Garde,' echoed the sentiments of many, decrying the 'hideous wounds' inflicted upon the beloved hill. Finally, in 1919, the French President issued a decree declaring the conservation of the Notre-Dame de la Garde hill as a matter of public interest. While this decree marked a significant victory for preservationists, quarrying activities continued for another three decades before finally ceasing. The scars, however, remained, a stark reminder of the near-destruction of a cherished landmark. The 'Trouée,' as it became known, stands as a physical manifestation of this struggle. It represents the tension between economic progress and the preservation of cultural and natural heritage. Today, the area has been partially reclaimed, with the creation of the Jardin du Bois Sacré (Garden of the Sacred Wood), a green space that offers respite and panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. The Jardin du Bois Sacré itself carries historical weight. Some historians believe that the site was once a sacred forest of the Ligures, an ancient people who inhabited the region. Julius Caesar is said to have destroyed this forest in 49 BC to obtain wood. Whether this legend is true or not, the name 'Bois Sacré' evokes a sense of reverence and connection to the land's deep past. Visiting the Trouée de Vauban and the Jardin du Bois Sacré offers a unique perspective on Marseille. It's not merely about admiring scenic views, although those are certainly present. It's about understanding the city's layers of history, its industrial heritage, and the ongoing efforts to balance development with conservation. Walking through the garden, one can reflect on the power of collective action and the importance of safeguarding cultural landmarks for future generations. The area is easily accessible and provides a starting point for exploring other attractions in the vicinity, including the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica itself. While the Trouée de Vauban may not be as widely known as some of Marseille's other landmarks, it offers a profound and meaningful experience for those willing to delve a little deeper into the city's story. It is a place where the past and present converge, inviting contemplation and a renewed appreciation for the enduring spirit of Marseille.

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