Isn’t it remarkable how such a small island can hold so much history? We are standing before the \u00celot de Tiboulen du Frioul. This islet sits to the west of the Frioul archipelago. It is in the bay of Marseille. The \u00celot de Tiboulen du Frioul rises 30 meters above the water.
Let’s talk about its name. “Tiboulen” comes from the Provençal evolution of the Latin word “antipolitanus”. This itself comes from the Greek “Antipolis”. It literally means “facing the city”. This name perfectly describes the location of the \u00celot de Tiboulen du Frioul. It sits right in front of the city.
The \u00celot de Tiboulen du Frioul plays a vital role in maritime safety. A light shines from its highest point. This is no ordinary light. It flashes green three times every 12 seconds. The light sits 34 meters high. It can be seen from 7 nautical miles away. Imagine sailors navigating the dark seas. They rely on this beacon to guide them safely.
The Frioul archipelago is close to Marseille. It lies about 2.7 kilometers off the coast of the Endoume neighborhood. The archipelago consists of several islands. These include Pomègues Ratonneau and If. Each island has its own unique story.
The Château d’If stands on one of these islands. King François I ordered its construction between 1527 and 1529. It served as a fortress.
Pomègues Island is another part of the Frioul archipelago. You can reach it by boat in twenty minutes from the Old Port.
Ratonneau Island is also one of the Frioul Islands. It is more than 2 miles from the Old Port.
So the \u00celot de Tiboulen du Frioul is more than just a rock in the sea. It is a navigational aid. It is a landmark with a name that echoes its position relative to Marseille. It is a part of a larger story. This story includes the Frioul archipelago. It includes the islands of Pomègues Ratonneau and If. Each contributes to the rich history of Marseille. As we continue our tour remember the beacon of \u00celot de Tiboulen du Frioul.