Here on Rue Saint-Georges stands a testament to architectural ambition. The Saint-Georges building is more than just an address. It is a self-contained world. It embodies the post-war dreams of community and modernity.
Delivered in 1963 the Saint-Georges was the vision of Louis Cottin. Cottin was the president of La Savoisienne a real estate company. He sought to create something remarkable in the Pharo district. He enlisted Claude Gros a young architect to bring his vision to life.
The Saint-Georges embodies Le Corbusier’s vision of a living unit. It integrates housing shops a school cultural facilities and even a church into one complex. This innovative approach earned it the 20th Century Heritage label in 2006.
Look up to appreciate the building’s unique structure. It comprises three distinct entities. A two-story triangular base houses the non-residential components including the church a six-classroom school a 700-seat auditorium a hotel and shops. A smaller eight-story building adjoins the base’s southern side. The grand 19-story curved structure rests on the base. It joins the smaller building perpendicularly.
Notice the distinctive curve of the main building. Architect Claude Gros designed it to withstand strong winds up to 180 km/h. The facade exhibits Gros’s characteristic style with concrete slabs and pillars creating a grid-like pattern.
Originally one of Marseille’s tallest buildings the Saint-Georges reaches about 66 meters. Most of the 222 apartments in the two towers are dual-aspect. They have balconies facing south for the smaller tower and west or southwest for the larger one with sea views.
Above the main entrance a stained-glass window by Max Ingrand depicts Saint George slaying the dragon. The shield displays the Savoy coat of arms. It is a white cross on a red background and it’s also the emblem of La Savoisienne. This emblem appears on the small tower’s lateral walls and entrances.
The multipurpose hall was intended for congresses cinemas or performances. It featured a large stage and modern technology.
An interesting fact is that a temporary church dedicated to Saint George existed here since 1945. The Saint-Georges project was seen as a reconstruction for the community.
The exterior of the church features a bell tower an arch with a cross and abstract bas-reliefs. Max Ingrand designed the stained-glass windows for the arch. The interior seats converge toward the altar in a semicircle. A large silver and stainless-steel Christ is the work of sculptor François Bouché.
The Saint-Georges school has been in this area since 1933. First known as the Externat des Catalans it became the Saint-Georges school in 1945. It moved into the Saint-Georges building in 1963. The school occupies the base’s second floor with a rooftop playground.
After the war the Pharo district was chosen for new apartment buildings. The Saint-Georges became a prominent landmark. Louis Cottin wanted the Saint-Georges to showcase La Savoisienne. The panoramic restaurant hosted literary awards art exhibits and conferences. It welcomed local decision-makers ministers and even Soviet construction ministers.
Over time the Saint-Georges lost some of its initial splendor. The panoramic restaurant became offices. The auditorium is now partly used by the city. However the church and school remain active.
Despite its generally good condition neglect led to significant deterioration. Concrete crumbling from the west facade’s balconies necessitated protective nets. However the building’s facade and balconies have been renovated in 2020-2021.
The Saint-Georges stands as a symbol of architectural innovation. It received the 20th Century Heritage label now called Remarkable Contemporary Architecture.
The Saint-Georges’ story is more than bricks and mortar. It is a story of community ambition and architectural vision. It is a reminder of Marseille’s post-war dreams.