Hôtel Colla de Pradines

The impressive Baroque mansion, completed in 1678, stands in the heart of the city.
Built on the edge of an island of houses, once marshland recovered from the former Canal de Vauroux, the Hôtel de Colla de Pradines, opposite the contemporary Église Sainte Marie-Madeleine opens onto the lively Place de la Libération.

It was the holiday home of the powerful Italian family, de Colla de Pradines, from Aix.

With corner buttresses, pilasters and a balanced distribution of large picture windows, it is reminiscent of the homes built in the Aix area at the same time.

On the façade, a plaque paying tribute to Gérard Tenque (1047-1120), founder of the Hospitaller Order and who, it is said, was born in Martigues. His statue can be seen on the façade of the Église St Genest de Jonquières. Town hall from 1808 to 1983, the building sheltered the courthouse until 2018.

In 2024, it will become the new Tourist Office and should boost the attractiveness of the Ile district. There is also a rescue operation for this jewel of the architectural heritage of Martigues.