Palais Monthyon Travel Guide

Palais Monthyon, the Marseille Courthouse, is an architectural landmark situated on Place Monthyon. Constructed between 1856 and 1862, it replaced a smaller, older courthouse. The building, designed by architect Auguste Martin, exemplifies the neoclassical style.The courthouse stands on land that once belonged to the arsenal of galleys. Place Monthyon itself has historical significance, initially known as the “champ du Major” in the 18th century, where troops from the arsenal performed exercises. In 1724, the government ceded the land to Marseille, and in 1773, local property owners financed the creation of a public square, which was later named after Jean-Baptiste de Montyon, a benefactor and intendant of Provence.The Palais de Justice is designed in the classical style. The main facade features a grand staircase and a peristyle with six Ionic columns. Above the entrance, a triangular pediment showcases sculptures by Eugène Guillaume, representing Justice, Force, Crime, Prudence, and Innocence. The building is 57 meters long and 54 meters wide.Today, Palais Monthyon remains a functional courthouse and a prominent architectural feature of Marseille. The esplanade in front of the building offers a space with a large basin and trees.