Ancienne Corderie (Old Rope Factory), Toulon
The Old Rope Factory of Toulon, also known as the Royal Ropeworks, is a historic structure that played a vital role in France鈥檚 naval history. Built in 1686 based on the designs of military engineer S茅bastien Le Prestre de Vauban, the factory stretches over 400 meters and consists of a central wing flanked by two attic pavilions. Commissioned by Louis XIV, this grand facility was essential for producing the ropes needed for sailing ships, directly influencing the city鈥檚 arsenal and shipbuilding industry. It remains the only surviving example of Vauban鈥檚 numerous contributions to the Toulon Arsenal.
The rope factory was fully operational by 1691, manufacturing ropes using hemp fibers across its two floors. However, with the advent of iron cables in the mid-19th century, the factory鈥檚 traditional purpose declined, and the premises were repurposed. Over time, it housed a sculpture workshop, a naval museum, and the shipmaster鈥檚 school, adapting to the evolving needs of Toulon鈥檚 maritime and cultural landscape.
By 1884, the Rope Factory had entirely ceased rope production, and subsequent fires in 1873 and 1907 caused significant damage. The structure underwent partial reconstruction and now serves as the home of the Naval Historical Service, later renamed 鈥淒efense.鈥� Despite these changes, the Old Rope Factory remains an enduring symbol of Toulon鈥檚 naval heritage, preserving its architectural and historical significance within the city.
The rope factory was fully operational by 1691, manufacturing ropes using hemp fibers across its two floors. However, with the advent of iron cables in the mid-19th century, the factory鈥檚 traditional purpose declined, and the premises were repurposed. Over time, it housed a sculpture workshop, a naval museum, and the shipmaster鈥檚 school, adapting to the evolving needs of Toulon鈥檚 maritime and cultural landscape.
By 1884, the Rope Factory had entirely ceased rope production, and subsequent fires in 1873 and 1907 caused significant damage. The structure underwent partial reconstruction and now serves as the home of the Naval Historical Service, later renamed 鈥淒efense.鈥� Despite these changes, the Old Rope Factory remains an enduring symbol of Toulon鈥檚 naval heritage, preserving its architectural and historical significance within the city.
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Ancienne Corderie (Old Rope Factory) on Map
Sight Name: Ancienne Corderie (Old Rope Factory)
Sight Location: Toulon, France (See walking tours in Toulon)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Toulon, France (See walking tours in Toulon)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Toulon, France
Create Your Own Walk in Toulon
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Toulon Introduction Walking Tour
Sitting pretty on the C么te d'Azur, Toulon blends history, sunshine, and Mediterranean charm effortlessly. Founded by the Romans as a strategic naval stronghold, it quickly became France's star naval port鈥攁n irresistible target for ambitious conquerors and pesky pirates alike. Its massive, naturally sheltered harbor is among Europe's largest, a fact the city has never been shy... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.2 Km or 1.4 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.2 Km or 1.4 Miles