Visit of the Crown Semaphore
During the European Heritage Days, we give you the unique opportunity to enter the heart of one of the last semaphores in France! Since 2015, the Crown semaphore has not opened its doors. To celebrate the living heritage, the National Navy has decided to welcome the public again. Be part of the privileged and discover the maritime history of this undeniable heritage. Built in 1887 under Napoleon III, the Crown Semaphore was intended to house the aerial telegraph by Admiral Decres, Minister of the Navy. It is a communication system with visual signals to fight against invaders and equip itself with the means of monitoring the coastline. In World War II, it was occupied by the Germans. At first, active at sunrise, he became a permanent watchman in the 1970s. Between 1978 and 1981, it was raised to France Télécom to install its technologies. The company withdrew in 1998, the facilities having become obsolete. Formerly, relay of transmission, the Semaphore today fully occupies its role of defense. The semaphore of La Couronne is the last representative of the three semaphores of the Mediterranean coast. 27 meters high, it overlooks the beach of Verdon. This high white tower operates 24/24 and 7/7. It is occupied year-round by a team of 10 people and depends on the maritime prefect. You too, climb to the top of the tower and access the control cabin under the comments of the main master of the Semaphore. A unique moment of sharing with an officer who will explain the work that drives the teams on a daily basis. At the top, admire the panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea and its maritime activity. The view is breathtaking!