Keeping watch over the Calanques

A watchful eye on the sea

The Callelongue semaphore station was built in 1863 as part of a campaign by the French state to replace the Marseilleveyre look out, which had been in service since the 16th century, but it was often in mist and it had been made obsolete by the evolution in communication technologies.

The semaphore station had a dual objective: to watch for the arrival of possible invaders and ensure communication with ships and other semaphore stations.

Semaphore technology

Semaphore was a 19th century innovation, which allowed communication over long distances, especially with ships. Invented by the Chappe brothers, then modernised by Charles Depillon, it consisted of a 12-metre mast to which four articulated arms were attached. The orientation of the articulated arms made it possible to create 1,849 positions to which as many messages and signals corresponded! The mast and the "Dupillon" arms were delivered in kit form and could be assembled in 15 minutes!

An army post

In 1939, the semaphore station was armed with two cannons. However, this did not prevent the building from being taken over by German troops during the Second World War and used as a surveillance post. It was disarmed at the end of the war. 

Restored Heritage Site

The semaphore station was entrusted by the French State to the Calanques National Park, who wanted to undertake its restoration. Having been abandoned for many years, the building was very damaged and covered in graffiti tags, presenting an unsightly impression in the landscape at the entrance of the National Park. The restoration was completed in 2019. The National Park is now considering its use as a public reception area and as a venue for special events.