Grue Applevage n°14

In 1935, the Nice Chamber of Commerce saw a need. They needed to boost the capacity of the Bassin du Commerce, the heart of their bustling port. Thus, the Grue Applevage n°14 was born. Commissioned from the renowned Parisian company Applevage, this mechanical marvel arrived at the Port Lympia in 1938. The Grue Applevage n°14, along with its sister crane n°13, quickly became vital players in the port’s operations. They were the primary tools for unloading coal, the lifeblood of many industries. But the Grue Applevage n°14 wasn’t limited to coal. It handled a diverse range of cargo, from peanuts and lumber to even livestock. The Grue Applevage n°14 stood tall, a symbol of the port’s strength and adaptability. Then came World War II. The conflict left its mark on the port and the Grue Applevage n°14 suffered damage. However, the resilient crane was repaired in 1947, ready to serve once more. A major reconstruction took place in 1956, breathing new life into the Grue Applevage n°14. Applevage, the original creators, oversaw the project. They meticulously restored the crane, retaining as many original parts as possible. This ensured that the crane remained a link to the port’s past while being equipped to handle the future. In 1966, the Grue Applevage n°14 and its sister crane were moved to the Bassin des Amiraux, taking their place along the Quai Amiral Infernet. Sadly, crane n°13 and two others met their demise in 1993. The Grue Applevage n°14 stands alone, a solitary sentinel of a bygone era. Even with its steel jib disarmed in 1998, it holds its ground. The Grue Applevage n°14 isn’t just a crane. It is a testament to the port’s history, a survivor of war and change. Recognized for its significance, it was designated a historical monument in 2000 and awarded the “Patrimoine du XXe siècle” label in 2001. It stands as a reminder of Nice’s industrial heritage.