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Origin and history

The Forbin Barracks, originally called the "Barracks of Italy" because of its location on the ancient road of Italy (now Gambetta), was built between 1726 and 1734 during the first half of the 18th century. It was raised in 1776 and served as a prison during the French Revolution. Renamed "Forbin barracks" in 1886-1887 by General Boulanger, then Minister of War, it housed various regiments until 1893, when a new barracks (future Miollis barracks) replaced it. It then welcomed the called until the 1960s.

Sold by the State in 1981, the barracks were almost entirely demolished to give way to a residential and commercial complex, however respecting the classical aesthetics of the site. Today, only the monumental gate, inscribed in historical monuments since 1926, and the chapel remain. This portal, the work of the Aixese sculptor Joseph Pellegrin, has a bas-relief representing two angels wearing a triple-lying coat of arms, topped by an angel holding a crown. The inscription "Freedom or death" and two cannons sealed on both sides underline its military character.

The gate, a protected element, embodies the military heritage of Aix-en-Provence. Its bas-relief and its symbols (lys, crown, weapons) reflect both the monarchic anchor of its construction and its subsequent use during the Revolution. The barracks thus illustrates the political and urban changes of the city, from the Old Regime to contemporary modernity.

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