Fort Saint-Jean has guarded the old port since the 16th century and is still one of the most famous buildings in Marseille.
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The fortifications were built in 1660, as was Fort Saint-Nicolas on the opposite shore of the harbour.
While officially both forts were built to defend the city from enemy raids, their true purpose was more in response to a local uprising against the governor. The cannons in both forts were aimed at the town and not at the open sea.
Entrance fees and opening hours
Fort St Jean is all part of the Mucem Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations.
Admission to the fort is therefore only possible by purchasing a ticket to this museum, the price of which is 11 eur for adults and 7,50 eur for minors under 25.
It always opens at 10:00 and closes between 17:00 and 19:00 depending on the season. For a detailed list of hours, visit the museum's website at mucem.org/en/hours-and-prices.
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