Imagine stepping back in time to 1856. Right here where we stand lies the Savonnerie du Fer-à-cheval. This is not just any soap factory. It is the oldest one in Marseille.
Founded in what was then the countryside, it started as a candle factory. But soon it evolved. It became a soap factory. This transformation marked the beginning of a long journey for the Savonnerie du Fer-à-cheval.
Over the years the Savonnerie du Fer-à-cheval saw many changes. Families like Leca, JB Paul and Roux owned it. The Fer-à-cheval brand emerged. It symbolized good luck and quality.
The Savonnerie du Fer-à-cheval even won a gold medal. This happened at the Universal Exhibition of Paris in 1900. The award recognized the high quality of its soaps. In 1974, the Salvador group acquired the Savonnerie du Fer-à-cheval. For many years, it produced Savon de Marseille Le Chat.
However in 2003, the Fer-à-cheval brand returned. The Compagnie des Détergents et du Savon de Marseille took over. They committed to making soaps using traditional recipes.
Then in 2013, the Seghin family bought the Savonnerie du Fer-à-cheval. These two Belgian brothers residing in Hong-Kong rescued it from financial difficulties. They brought new life to the historic brand.
Today, the Savonnerie du Fer-à-cheval stands as a symbol. It represents Marseille’s rich cultural heritage. The factory still makes soap using the traditional methods. They use large cauldrons. This process follows the Edict of Colbert from 1688. Napoléon Bonaparte’s decree of 1812 further supports it. The Savonnerie du Fer-à-cheval uses a five-step process. It is a method that has made the soap famous.
The Savonnerie du Fer-à-cheval produces natural soaps. These soaps have no colorants or preservatives. They are made with olive oil. This makes them antiseptic. People can use them for both body and laundry. The Savonnerie Fer-à-cheval offers more than 12 products. These products have over 28 variations. The catalog includes soaps, liquid soaps, creams, and cosmetics.
The factory itself is like a museum. When you step inside, you feel like you’re traveling back in time. The buildings may be old. But this adds to their charm. The cauldrons are impressive. Each can hold 15 tons. Seven have survived the test of time.
Michel Bianconi, a master soap maker, is a key figure here. He has worked at the Savonnerie du Fer-à-cheval for almost 35 years. He knows all the secrets of soap making. Soap making dates back to the Middle Ages. Michel carefully watches the soap. He observes its changes.
In 2016, the Savonnerie du Fer-à-cheval had a makeover. It has a new logo. It also has new packaging. Yet, it has kept its traditional values. The Savonnerie du Fer-à-cheval combines tradition with innovation. It offers new products without allergens.
The Savonnerie Fer-à-cheval is more than a factory. It is a living piece of Marseille’s history. Its soaps are not perfect. They are alive. Their shapes and colors change with time. They also depend on the seasons and oils used.
The Savonnerie du Fer-à-cheval is very selective. The products are not in large supermarkets. You can find them at the factory store. You can also find them at Maison Empereur in La Place aux Huiles in Marseille.
Today, the Savonnerie du Fer-à-cheval continues its story. It is moving into the organic market. Also it is growing nationally and internationally. The Savonnerie du Fer-à-cheval remains a symbol of Marseille. It embodies tradition, quality, and the spirit of innovation. It is a place where the past and present come together. This creates a unique and authentic experience. In 2019, it was listed as a historical monument.