Palais Longchamp

Henry Espérandieu, the renowned builder of the Notre Dame Basilica, was responsible for creating the Longchamp plateau, which served as a spectacular architectural landmark from 1682 until 1869.

On either side of the water reservoir is an open arcade that leads to two museums. The museums on the park side of the pool face a large garden, and the museums on the city side of the reservoir face a waterfall.

THINGS TO DO AT PALAIS LONGCHAMP:

Appreciate the work of art and understand its relevance in serving as a focal point for the European Capital of Culture:

After the monument was dedicated in 1869, several sculptors were chosen to paint the 'Palais Longchamp' with their works of art.

The gateway is decorated with statues of lions and tigers sculpted by Antoine Louis Bayre. The magnificent and imposing fountain designed by Jules Cavelier is located in the courtyard's center, representing the arrival of water from the Durance river.

Stroll through the galleries of 'Palais Longchamp' and look at the collection:

It first opened its doors in 1801 and held the distinction of being Marseille's oldest museum. The sculptures, paintings, and sketches in the Museum of Fine Arts date back to the 17th and 18th centuries and can be found on the left side of the building.

On the right side of the building is where you'll find the Natural History Museum, home to many interesting collections of artifacts from the 18th century that was gifted from the city and state.

Make assumptions based on the remains of a zoo that occupied the same space as the park in the past:

The royal front of this building conceals a park that is exceptionally well-liked by the people who live in Marseille. The 'Palais Longchamp' was home to the 'Big Zoo of Marseille,' considered the first provincial zoo in France, from 1855 until 1987.

There are still traces of the cages and the building that housed the giraffes that may be seen in the park.

Several zoo animals saved after passing away can be shown in the Natural History Museum, located in one of the wings of the 'Palais Longchamp.'

Take advantage of this opportunity to see the goings-on at the Palace Longchamp Observatory:

On the Longchamp plateau, amid the gardens, in 1864, the observatory, known as Marseille's first scientific edifice, was created. It is considered to be the oldest building in the city.

Since the beginning of the 20th century, it has housed the world's largest telescope, with a diameter of approximately 80 centimetres.

Activities centred on astronomy are provided by the Andromede association. These activities include trips to planetariums, exhibitions, and even outings to the large telescope.

In addition, guests have the opportunity to attend seminars and gaze upon either the sun or the moon.

If you are travelling to Marseille with kids, this is the ideal place to spend the day.