“Nine white flashes every fifteen seconds.” That is the Feu de Sourdaras’s rhythm. We are standing near the entrance to the Old Port of Marseille. Look out to the sea. You can see it between the islands of Endoume and If.
The Feu de Sourdaras is more than just a light. It’s a cardinal mark. It warns sailors of danger. Specifically, danger to the west. This light marks a treacherous spot. It helps ships avoid the rocks.
Let’s dive into some history. Henry Michelot described this spot in 1805. He was a hydrographer. He warned of two underwater rocks. One was called Sourdara. The other was Canoubiez. Sourdara had only three feet of water above it. Canoubiez had only one foot. These rocks sat right in the middle of the passage. They ran from Château d’If to Isle de Daume. Sailors needed to know how to avoid them.
Now look closer at the structure. The Feu de Sourdaras has a truncated cone shape. It was enlarged in May 1906. This made way for an automatic light. It stood 19 meters high. Initially, it was a fixed white light starting April 20, 1912. By June 1927, it changed. The light then had two blinks every eight seconds. Today, it has nine white flashes every 15 seconds. This is a cardinal mark for the west.
Notice its neighbor. The Tourelle du Canoubier sits about 100 meters to the north. They are like siblings. Both warn sailors. Both stand guard near Marseille. The Tourelle du Canoubier is also a cardinal mark. They work together.
The Feu de Sourdaras is a sentinel. It protects ships entering Marseille. It has evolved over time. It is a testament to maritime safety. Its light continues to guide sailors. Think of all the ships it has saved. Remember its flashing rhythm. It is a constant presence in Marseille. It is a story of navigation and safety.