Envision Louis XIV’s ambition to fortify Marseille against maritime threats. It led to the construction of Fort de Tourville on Île Degaby. This island sits just 300 meters from the coast. This is Fort de Tourville.
Back in 1680, the fort was built to protect Marseille. It was specifically for attacks coming from the south. The Fort de Tourville proudly defended the city.
The island remained a military possession for a long time. But around 1915, the army relinquished it. Industrialist André Laval then bought the island. He gifted it to his wife, Liane Degaby. She was a famous music-hall performer. The island then transformed into a festive place. The bourgeoisie of Marseille came to party here.
Around 1921, thieves looted the island. The despondent owners left. For almost 40 years, the island was abandoned.
In 1861 and 1862, major modifications occurred. The fort became a crenellated guardhouse. It was reinforced to house 30 men. The building covered about 280 square meters. The fort’s entrance was on the west side. A drawbridge spanned a moat. Under the entrance was a rainwater collection cistern.
Pascal Morabito bought Île Degaby in 1990. He renovated it. It became his artists’ residence. He hosted soirées there. In 2001, property developers bought the island.
Today, Île Degaby is owned by a Belgian group. They invested heavily in refurbishing the fortress. It now hosts private events, seminars, and parties. In 2023, dining experiences became available for one-off events.
Île Degaby got its name from Liane Degaby. She was a music-hall actress from the Belle Époque. She was also the wife of a former island owner. The other name, Île Gaby, comes from confusion. It is often mistaken for Gaby Deslys. She was another artist living nearby at the same time.
Before Fort de Tourville was built, the island served as a maritime outpost. It predated Marseille’s actual fortifications. It protected the city on its southern flank. The Fort de Tourville was decommissioned in 1889. The army separated from it in 1914.
Fort de Tourville embodies Marseille’s layered history. It changed from a strategic military point to a glamorous party destination. Now, it hosts exclusive events. The Fort de Tourville stands as a testament to time.