Toulon history

Founding and Antiquity

The history of Toulon is rooted in deep antiquity. Initially, this territory, protected by hills and the sea, was inhabited by Ligurian tribes. Subsequently, the region was colonised by the Romans, who founded a settlement here named Telo Martius. This name is likely connected to the Ligurian goddess of springs, Telo, or serves as a dedication to the Roman deity of war, Mars.

The first mentions of the city as a significant point appear in the maritime routes of the Roman Empire (such as the "Antonine Itinerary"), where it was designated as an important anchorage for ships.

Key Factors of Formation

The transformation of a small settlement into an important centre was driven by a combination of unique conditions:

• Geographical Location: Toulon is situated on the shores of one of the most beautiful and protected natural harbours in Europe. The deep-water bay, sheltered from winds by the Cépet peninsula, became an ideal place for the development of navigation.
• Strategic Defence: The city is surrounded by high limestone mountains, including the famous Mount Faron, which provided natural defence against attacks from the land.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

In the Roman era, Toulon's economy had a distinct specialisation that brought it fame beyond the region:

• Imperial Dye Works: The city was renowned for the production of precious purple dye, extracted from marine molluscs (murex and purpura). Local dye works (baphiana) supplied fabrics for the Roman nobility and the imperial court.
• Christianisation: By the 5th century, Toulon had become the residence of a bishop, indicating its increased administrative and cultural status during the late antiquity period.

Major Historical Milestones

The history of Toulon is inextricably linked with the sea and the navy, which is reflected in the key dates of the city's development from the Middle Ages to the present day.

• 1481 — Toulon, along with the County of Provence, officially becomes part of the Kingdom of France, opening a new chapter in its history.
• 1514 — By order of Louis XII, construction begins on the Royal Tower (Tour Royale) — a powerful fort to protect the harbour entrance.
• 1599 — King Henry IV establishes the first military arsenal, laying the foundation for the city's transformation into France's main naval base on the Mediterranean.
• Late 17th Century — The famous military engineer Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban modernises the city fortifications and creates a system of forts around the roadsteads.
• 1720 — The city suffers severely from a plague epidemic arriving from Marseille, losing a significant part of its population.
• 1793 — The famous Siege of Toulon, during which the young Captain Napoleon Bonaparte displayed his strategic talent and expelled the Anglo-Spanish fleet.
• 1830 — Toulon becomes the departure point for the French expedition to Algiers, beginning an era of active colonial expansion in Africa.
• 1888 — Successful trials of the world's first fully electric submarine, the "Gymnote", take place in the port.
• 27 November 1942 — French sailors scuttle their own fleet in Toulon harbour to prevent the ships from falling into the hands of Nazi Germany.
• August 1944 — During Operation Dragoon, Allied forces and the French army liberate the city after fierce battles for Mount Faron.
• 1974 — Toulon receives the status of prefecture (administrative centre) of the Var department, taking over this role from Draguignan.
• 1979 — Foundation of the University of Toulon, contributing to the city's transformation into an important educational and scientific hub of the region.
• Early 21st Century — Start of a large-scale urban renovation programme aimed at restoring the historic centre and developing cruise tourism.

Stages of Development and Transformation

The evolution of Toulon is a journey from a closed military port to a modern tourism and administrative centre. Here are the key milestones that defined the modern appearance and economy of the city:

• Creation of the Royal Arsenal (17th Century). The decision to turn the city into France's main naval base on the Mediterranean was a turning point. This defined the single-industry nature of the economy for centuries to come and led to the construction of massive fortifications by Vauban, which set the boundaries of the historic centre.
• Urbanisation of the Second Empire (Mid-19th Century). During this period, the city expanded beyond its medieval walls. Wide boulevards were laid out (such as Boulevard de Strasbourg) and the famous Opera House was built. This formed the so-called "Upper Town" with its elegant Haussmann architecture, contrasting with the old quarters of the port.
• Arrival of the Railway (1859). Connection to the national railway network brought Toulon out of geographic isolation. This gave a powerful boost to trade and allowed for the delivery of materials for the expanding shipbuilding industry, turning the city into a major industrial hub.
• Post-War Reconstruction (1950s). After the devastating bombings of World War II, the coastal part of the city (Front de Mer) was completely rebuilt. Modernist-style buildings rose on the site of the ruins, becoming the new "face" of the city from the sea and solving the acute housing problem.
• Obtaining Prefecture Status (1974). The transfer of the administrative centre of the Var department from Draguignan to Toulon changed the city's status. This led to the construction of new administrative complexes and the development of the service sector, reducing the economy's dependence solely on the defence industry.
• Opening of the University (1979). The founding of the University of Toulon was an important step in cultural and scientific life. The appearance of a student campus and research laboratories contributed to the rejuvenation of the population and the development of high-tech industries related to the sea.
• Urban Renovation Programme (21st Century). A large-scale project to rehabilitate the historic centre breathed new life into old quarters. The creation of the "Arts Quarter" (Rue des Arts), pedestrian zones, and the modernisation of the cruise terminal reoriented the city towards tourism and cultural leisure.

Architectural Eclecticism and Urban Planning

The architectural appearance of Toulon is clearly divided into two parts: the historic "Lower Town" with its medieval maze of streets and the "Upper Town", created in the 19th century according to a regular plan. This division clearly demonstrates the evolution of urban planning thought from chaotic development to orderly planning.

Middle Ages and Religious Architecture

The oldest quarters of the city, adjacent to the port, have preserved the spirit of Provence. Dense buildings, narrow pedestrian streets ("traverses"), and small squares with fountains predominate here.

• Toulon Cathedral (Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds): A unique example of a mixture of styles. The originally Romanesque church (11th century) acquired Gothic vaults in the 17th century, and its façade was executed in the Classicist (Baroque) style of the late 17th century.
• Church of Saint-François-de-Paule: Built in the 18th century in the Baroque style characteristic of the south of France, with a simple yet elegant curved façade.

Military Classicism and Vauban's Legacy

The status of a major military port defined the austere and majestic style of many 17th–18th-century structures. Military engineers, including Vauban, set the tone for functional yet monumental architecture.

• Royal Tower (Tour Royale): A massive fortification from the early 16th century, preceding the classic bastion style. It served as protection for the roadstead and as a prison.
• Monumental Arsenal Gate: Built in 1738. A striking example of Classicism with elements of military symbolism (statues of Mars and Minerva), emphasising the power of the French fleet.
• Corderie Building: A former rope manufactory designed by Vauban. It is a masterpiece of 17th-century industrial architecture, distinguished by strict symmetry and immense length.

The Belle Époque and Second Empire Style

In the mid-19th century, under Napoleon III, Toulon expanded to the north. Baron Haussmann, prefect of the Var department (before his appointment to Paris), initiated the restructuring of the city. Thus appeared the "Upper Town" with wide boulevards and elegant buildings.

• Toulon Opera House: Opened in 1862. This building in the Neo-Baroque style (or Napoleon III style) is considered one of the most beautiful in France. It is richly decorated with statues, stucco, and gilding, anticipating the architecture of the Opera Garnier in Paris.
• Place de la Liberté: The heart of Haussmann's Toulon. Here stands the Grand Hotel (formerly the prefecture headquarters) with a majestic façade typical of late 19th-century bourgeois architecture.

Modernism and Post-War Reconstruction

The destruction of World War II, especially in the port zone, required radical solutions. The restoration of the embankment in the 1950s was conducted under the influence of Le Corbusier's ideas and modern functionalism.

• Front de Mer: A complex of residential buildings along the port designed by Jean de Mailly. It is a vivid example of mid-20th-century modernist architecture: the use of concrete, clear geometric forms, and an emphasis on functionality and sea views.
• La Rode Quarter: Built up in the 1970s with high-rise residential towers, reflecting the urban planning trends of that time aimed at densifying the urban environment.

Historical and Military Figures

• Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban (1633–1707) — Military engineer and Marshal of France. The great architect of fortifications who designed Toulon's famous defence system, turning the city into an impregnable naval base. His legacy still shapes the appearance of the city harbour.
• Napoleon Bonaparte (1769–1821) — Commander and Emperor. Although he was born in Corsica, his career began here. In 1793, during the Siege of Toulon, the young artillery captain liberated the city from Anglo-Spanish troops with a brilliant plan, earning the rank of brigadier general.
• Jules Dumont d'Urville (1790–1842) — Navigator and explorer. A naval officer whose famous expeditions to Antarctica and Oceania started from the port of Toulon. It was he who brought the famous statue of Venus de Milo to France (via the port of Toulon).

Figures of Culture and Art

• Félix Mayol (1872–1941) — Singer and music hall artist. A native of the city who became a star of the Parisian stage in the early 20th century. He is known as a major patron of the local rugby club: he donated land for the stadium (now Stade Mayol) and made a sprig of lily of the valley the team's symbol.
• Raimu (Jules Muraire) (1883–1946) — Theatre and film actor. A legend of French cinema born in the old centre of Toulon. He became famous for roles in Marcel Pagnol's films, embodying the characteristic image of a resident of Provence on screen.
• Jean Aicard (1848–1921) — Poet and playwright. A member of the Académie Française born in Toulon. In his works, such as "Maurin des Maures", he lovingly described the life, traditions, and nature of his native Provence.
• Gilbert Bécaud (1927–2001) — Singer and composer. The famous "Monsieur 100,000 Volts", born in Toulon. He became one of the most brilliant representatives of French chanson, whose songs (for example, "Nathalie" and "Et maintenant") are known worldwide.
• Mireille Darc (1938–2017) — Actress and model. Born and raised in Toulon. She became a style icon of the 1960s and 70s and one of the most recognisable actresses of French cinema, starring in Georges Lautner's cult comedies.