Quarry history, chapels and coastal paths shape the themes of a stay in La Couronne. Highlights range from the quarries at Baou Tailla and historic religious buildings to the beach and archaeological remains.
Quarries and Coastal Landscape
At Baou Tailla on the seashore, stoneworking continues to shape the coastal landscape. Some sections of the quarries close to the coast have collapsed into the sea. Here, traces of stoneworking are just as much a part of the landscape as its immediate proximity to the water.
Church and Bell Tower
The Eglise Saint-Jean Baptiste de La Couronne was built in 1669 in the centre of a village of quarry workers. Craftspeople engraved their signatures in the bell tower; tools used by quarry workers are displayed inside. The history of local work can thus be encountered both at the church and in the objects displayed there.
The bell tower was built later and blessed on 10 May 1859. Its marked stones bear witness to the contribution of local quarry workers. The two dates refer to different events: 1669 marks the construction of the church, and 1859 the blessing of the tower, which was built later.
Chapelle de Sainte-Croix
The Chapelle de Sainte-Croix was built in the 17th century. Opposite it stand the ruins of an older chapel dating from the 12th century. Two buildings from markedly different periods thus face each other at this site. The chapel honours local quarry workers; the quarry workers’ cross can be seen above its door. Its history therefore brings together religious architecture and the work that also shaped the coastal landscape.
Two Routes, Two Historical Highlights
The Boucle des carrières de pierre de La Couronne is an 11-kilometre tourist circular route that visits eight quarries in La Couronne. The stated distance helps you factor the route into your day’s plans. Check access conditions before setting out.
The Grande boucle du Cap Couronne focuses on a different historical period: it leads to the remains of a Gallic village from the 6th century BC at Pointe de l’Arquet. The destinations thus offer different points of reference when choosing a route: quarries are the focus of one, while archaeological remains are the focus of the other. You can use these themes to plan your days of sightseeing.
Plage de Sainte-Croix and the Coastal Path
The Plage de Sainte-Croix beach is crossed by the Martigues coastal path and sheltered by the surrounding cliffs. The beach and path are thus part of the same coastal experience. Seasonal services may vary; check what applies for your travel dates before your visit.
Railway Line and Tickets
Line 7 connects Miramas with Marseille and runs along the Côte Bleue from Martigues to L’Estaque. If this connection works for your travel plans, check the latest timetable before your journey, as schedules may change.
Gare de La Couronne station has a ticket machine but no ticket counter. As facilities can change, check before you set off.
Find a Holiday Rental to Suit Your Stay
When looking for a holiday rental in La Couronne, your plans for the days can be a good starting point: would you like to focus mainly on quarry history and religious buildings, or are the coast and beach more important?
For the broader travel overview: Martigues.
