Savonnerie Fer a Cheval stands on chemin de Sainte-Marthe, in the 14th arrondissement, well away from the coastal districts. The site presents itself as an authentic soap works founded in 1856 and listed as a Historic Monument, still in production. That industrial continuity is what makes the place worthwhile: this is not a museum reconstruction but a working plant, with its vats, its smells and its noise.
The soap works states that the guided visit lets visitors watch the master soap makers, whose techniques pass from one generation to the next. Constituted groups are received from Monday to Friday, by direct arrangement with the house, which allows a dedicated slot rather than a passage mixed in with the general public. Closed shoes are required, and step-free access is arranged on request.
Other experiences in Vieux-Port de Marseille
At Le Puy-Sainte-Reparade, a biodynamic wine estate where Jean Nouvel's cellar and a contemporary art trail answer one another.
Food & VineyardsLe Petit Nice Passedat, the table above the coveAbove the anse de Maldorme, below the corniche Kennedy, a Marseille house whose dining room and terrace can be hired for small groups.
Shopping & CraftsmanshipAteliers Marcel Carbonel, the santon maker's craftIn the Saint-Victor district, a house of santon makers opens its production workshops, by appointment only and from Monday to Thursday.
Culture & HeritageHotel de Caumont, the privatised town houseA town house in Aix-en-Provence's Mazarin quarter whose salons, auditorium and formal gardens can be hired once the site closes to the public.
Culture & HeritageFondation Vasarely, the privatised alveoliVictor Vasarely's architectonic centre in Aix-en-Provence opens its seven monumental alveoli and its three-hectare grounds to private hire.