Bastide de Montgolfier-la-Tour-du-Pin

Two windmills reaching for the sky. That’s the first thing you notice about the Bastide de Montgolfier-la-Tour-du-Pin. It’s a curious sight, these structures seemingly out of place amidst the urban landscape of Marseille’s 14th arrondissement. The Bastide de Montgolfier-la-Tour-du-Pin is more than just a picturesque farmhouse. It’s a historical landmark, a testament to 19th-century ingenuity, and a preserved piece of Marseille’s rich past. The name “Tour des Pins” (Tower of Pines) might conjure images of a grand watchtower, but its origins are more practical. It’s believed that a tower once stood on the highest point of the property, keeping a watchful eye on ships entering the port. The Bastide itself is a beautiful structure, its facades and roofs protected since 1993. But the charm doesn’t stop there. The estate boasts a main farmhouse, a barn, a picturesque park, the two windmills, and a belvedere. These windmills, while lacking their original mechanisms, likely served as flour mills. They have since been converted into belvederes, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. The entire property, including the park and its elements, is registered as a historical monument. The Bastide de Montgolfier-la-Tour-du-Pin has a rich history, with ties to the Montgolfier brothers, the inventors of the hot air balloon. While some believe the family owned the estate, concrete evidence is elusive. What is certain is that the city of Marseille purchased the property in 1987. After a brief closure, it reopened in 2014 as an educational farm, breathing new life into this historic site. Now, children and adults alike can learn about agriculture and connect with the land, adding another layer of richness to the Bastide’s story. So, as you admire the windmills against the Marseille skyline, remember you’re not just looking at a building. You’re looking at a living piece of history, a place where the past whispers stories of innovation, agriculture, and the changing landscape of this vibrant city.