Savonnerie du Fer-à-cheval, Historic soap factory in 14th arrondissement of Marseille, France
Savonnerie du Fer-à-cheval is a soap factory in the 14th arrondissement of Marseille that preserves nine original tanks for soap production. Seven of these tanks remain actively used in the manufacturing process today.
The factory was founded in 1856 as a candle-making facility before transitioning to soap production. It received its current name in 1953 following a change of ownership.
The factory produces authentic Marseille soap using only plant oils and traditional methods without artificial additives. Visitors can observe how this craft remains actively practiced within the historic facility.
Tours are available on weekdays, with different time slots for individual visitors and groups. It is advisable to inquire in advance or register, especially when visiting as a group.
The factory earned recognition as living cultural heritage and operates as Marseille's longest-running soap producer without interruption. This distinction honors how craftwork traditions have been maintained across generations.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
