The fort, located at the entrance to the Old Port, began to be built at the very beginning of the 17th century. In Marseille it is called “Saint-Nicolas.” Together with the other fort, “Saint-Jean,” it was erected by order of Louis XIV.
Both defensive structures were created in record time - in just 4 years. Fort Saint-Nicolas appeared on the site of a chapel dating back to the Middle Ages. Its remains, along with Couronne stone, served as building material for the future fortress. Previously, the chain that blocked enemy ships from entering the harbor was kept here.
In addition, the construction of the forts pursued another goal: keeping watch over the rebellious residents of Marseille, who in those days often staged uprisings.
The disgruntled townspeople tried more than once to demolish the building, and once they almost succeeded - part of the fortification was destroyed. However, the fort was restored, but even now it is possible to notice that the reconstructed fragments differ in color, since they are made of gray stone rather than pink, like the rest of the landmark.
Today the fort is open to tourists, but only partially - some premises still belong to the French army.
