Saint Laurent Church

Saint Laurent is a medium-sized church and comprises three naves separated by square pillars. Its exact origins are uncertain but it is mentioned in a number of 13th Century documents and was known to be enclosed within the Château Babon that was destroyed in the 15th Century. Saint Laurent was the parish church of the fishermen and seafarers and is the only parish church from the Middle Ages still preserved in Marseille today. The church was pillaged and severely damaged in the Revolution but was spared from being demolished when it was transformed into a warehouse and continued to be used as such until the Concordat was agreed. Marseille considered Saint Laurent as one of its principle churches until the old quarter was destroyed in 1943. It became a National Heritage building in 1950.
The Massalistes built a temple to Apollon on this hill, which served to the defence of their town. It is in this point that the Roman legions became established when Caesar had crushed Massilia. In 850, the bishop Babon, built a defensive set in which the inhabitants looked for refuge in case of danger. It is then that was built the church Holy Laurent.
Saint Laurent was the church of the sailors and the fishermen. It was known for the traditions which were attached. Particular masses for the sailors, the offerings of fishes.