Soap Making
Currently, there are only 5 soap factories left in Marseilles and Salon-de-Provence.
The Savonnerie du Midi, the Fer à cheval, the Sérail, and Marius Fabre all use the old-fashioned saponification method known as "au chaudron", a process carried out by master soap makers. They are grouped together under the UPSM label Union des professionels du Savon de Marseille, a quality charter guaranteeing the origin and composition "Extra pure" 100% vegetable oil, without perfume, coloring or additives.
As for the Rampal Latour soap factory in Salon-de-Provence, which also uses the age-old cauldron production process, it has enhanced its process to save water and energy, in line with the environmental requirements of our time.
Savonnerie du Midi
The Marseille Soap Museum offers a unique tour within Savonnerie du Midi’s factory, founded in 1894, and traces the traditional Marseille Soap’s history.
Fer à Cheval
Fer à Cheval is the oldest and largest soap factory in Marseille still in operation.
In this authentic building with big stone cauldrons, steam pressure … the saponification is in process.
Marius Fabre
In 1900, Marius Fabre founded his soap company in Salon de Provence. Today, the fourth generation of his family is carrying on the tradition of real Marseille soap with the same passion. This traditional know-how, handed down through generations in the family, guarantees that Marseille soap has kept its peerless quality over centuries.
Rampal Latour
Rose, lavender, verbena: have fun guessing the many scents in store! In a friendly and warm atmosphere, the guided tour will lead you to discover the profession of master soap makers with their historic cauldrons. In particular, learn the secrets of making and drying pure soap flakes for laundry care, which respect delicate fibers and sensitive skin.