“Farot” whispers the wind. It carries tales of emperors and tropical medicine, right here at Résidence le Pharo. This elegant building offered to Napoleon III stands proudly overlooking the entrance to the port of Marseille. Its story is one of imperial dreams and medical breakthroughs.
The name “Pharo” comes from the mound that once separated this spot from the sea. A lookout tower stood here in the 14th century. Imagine a watchman scanning the horizon for approaching ships.
The city gifted this prime waterfront land to Napoleon III. He envisioned a residence fit for an emperor. Architect Lefuel drew inspiration from past styles. He later completed the Louvre and the Nouvelles Tuileries in Paris.
Construction began in 1858. However, the ground needed extensive leveling due to its crater shape. The project faced delays because of funding shortages and material scarcity. The simultaneous construction of the Major cathedral further strained resources.
Interestingly, Napoleon III never actually stayed at Résidence le Pharo. After his death in 1873, his wife Empress Eugenie gave the palace to the city.
In 1904, Résidence le Pharo transformed into a specialized establishment. It became the Pharo School. Its full name evolved into the Institute of Tropical Medicine of the Army Health Service. For over a century, it welcomed 8,000 doctors pharmacists and technicians. These individuals practiced medicine in overseas territories. It was the only military institute in Europe specializing in tropical medicine. Imagine the wealth of knowledge that passed through these halls.
Until its closure in 2013, the Pharo played a vital role in medical history. It was a center for research into tropical diseases and nutrition. This imperial residence became a beacon of medical knowledge.
Today Résidence le Pharo serves as a congress center and reception space for the city of Marseille. Underground glass rooms offer stunning views of the Old Port. An auditorium hosts concerts by the Marseille Opera.
The architecture echoes the Villa Eugenie in Biarritz with its U-shaped plan. However Résidence le Pharo is more monumental with an additional attic floor. Stone was used for its construction unlike the brick used in Biarritz.
Its classic style features a triangular pediment with Marseille’s coat of arms. Two children support the shield. The building stands as a testament to both imperial ambition and civic progress.
So as you gaze at Résidence le Pharo remember its dual history. It embodies both imperial dreams and its significant contribution to tropical medicine. A proud symbol of Marseille.