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Bernard Tapie, the story of an Atlantic record on the luxury yacht Phocéa

Suffering from cancer for several years, Bernard Tapie died at his home this Sunday morning, October 3, 2021. Businessman, politician, actor, he was also a lover of the sea. Here is a look back at a record-breaking transatlantic voyage aboard his luxury yacht Phocéa, with a crew.

A refit to be more efficient

Bernard Tapie was a real jack-of-all-trades, mixing several careers and hobbies at once. One of which is of particular interest to us, sailing.

In 1982, Bernard Tapie bought the former Club Méditerranée to the widow of Alain Colas . Repatriated from Tahiti to Marseille , the 4-masted sailing boat was completely refitted. The businessman transformed it into a luxurious sailing yacht, but did not omit the sporting side of the boat , favoring the use of light materials. With a length of 74.37 m, the Phocéa is at the time, the largest yacht in the world, dethroned in 2004 by the Athena.

Breaking the Atlantic record under sail in a monohull

After 4 years of work and 10 million euros committed (68 million francs), Phocéa (its new name) is ready to break records. This is the objective set by its owner. After a first failed attempt, Bernard Tapie tried in June 1988, to beat the Atlantic record from west to east in a monohull. This record was held at the time by Atlantic Charlie Barr's schooner in 12 days, 4 hours, 1 minute and 19 seconds.

On departure from New York, he entrusted the helm of the Phocéa to Captain Jean-Luc Pinon, assisted by Pierre Gaillet. Also present were two helmsmen, Frank Dambrin and François Prévost. In total, 20 people were on board, including a TF1 journalist who was supposed to report on the epic every day during the television news, and of course, Bernard Tapie himself.

A dangerous record

According to witnesses, after two days, the boat sank into the sea, which made its owner lose patience. A storm was then announced and, against the captain's advice, Bernard Tapie decided to stay on course and continue his crossing, putting his crew in danger. He realized this at the end of the crossing.

In total, the four-masted ship went down and got up four times, battered by the huge waves . For the anecdote, the journalist on board even went into a tetanic coma, unable to move, paralyzed by fear.

Phocéa, equipped with 2 spinnakers, 4 genoas and 2 mainsails - 3,000 m2 of canvas in total - swallows up the miles - more than 400 miles some days - at speeds approaching 20 knots. Managing to overcome the storm , the crew reached Saint-Malo after 8 days, 3 hours and 29 minutes, with an average speed of 14.96 knots over a course of 2925 miles. This beat Charlie Barr's record by 4 days.

Record breaking

If he beats the Atlantic record of Charlie Barr, and several racing multihulls of the time, his record is only homologated by the WSSR - homologation of sailing records - in the 5c category (sailboats equipped with auxiliary power, in this case winches with hydraulic assistance).

Seized in 1996 by Bernard Tapie, the Phocéa was bought several times, before being sold to the catch fire in February 2021 in Malaysia .

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Bernard Tapie's Phocéa, exceptional sailboat 1976-2021

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The Phocéa at Port Vauban in Antibes in 2009.

In 1976, navigator Alain Colas (record holder of the 1973 solo round-the-world sailing trip in 169 days on his Pen Duick IV "Manureva") had this exceptional vessel built, designed by naval architect Michel Bigouin (creator of Pen Duick IV and Pen Duick V) at the Toulon arsenal. He finances everything through his company Alain-Colas-Tahiti SA with an exceptional ability to solicit sponsors. The ship is built within the confines of the Mourillon arsenal in Toulon. Unique and revolutionary boat 72 meters long, it was initially baptized Club Méditerranée, and has 1 m000 of sail area, 2 masts 4 meters high. It is equipped with very advanced technological equipment for the time. This boat having to perform the English Transat (solo transatlantic) and the solo round the world, it must be able to be maneuvered by a single person: the maneuver of the boat is entirely assisted by a hydraulic pilot system. This then state-of-the-art boat is one of the largest and fastest racing sailboats in the world, capable of theoretically reaching a top speed of 30 knots (or 30 km/h).

On June 5, 1976, Alain Colas took the start of the fifth English Transat solo, in Plymouth. The following days, five storms follow one another in the North Atlantic, several boats sink. On Club Méditerranée, they caused the halyards, cables holding the sails, to break. Alain Colas decides on a technical stopover in Newfoundland, which lasts thirty-six hours. On June 29, he arrived in Newport in fifth place after a fixed penalty of 58 hours, but only 7 hours and 28 minutes in real time behind Éric Tabarly.

In 1978, Alain Colas was reported missing at sea on November 16 while taking part in the Route du Rhum on his Pen Duick IV “Manureva”. His wife Teura Colas then inherited his company and its boats, which had been abandoned for many years in Tahiti.

The Phocea off Pampelonne in Saint-Tropez.

In 1982, businessman Bernard Tapie bought Club Méditerranée and Alain-Colas-Tahiti SA from Teura Colas, which he made a subsidiary of his group. He repatriates the wreckage of the boat to Marseilles from Tahiti where he has it completely restored and transformed into a luxury yacht, while retaining its sporting spirit. Thus, only light materials are used to fit out the Phocéa, which remains very efficient under sail. Bernard Tapie wants to make the Phocéa the most beautiful and the most efficient sailboat in the world. The renovation will last four years, at a cost of 68 million francs (10 million euros). On May 23, 1987, by way of inauguration, he married Dominique Mialet-Damianos, of Greek origin, on board in Greece during a private ceremony with some friends, celebrated by a Greek Orthodox priest and made his first cruise in the Mediterranean at on board for her honeymoon.

In 1988, on his second attempt, Bernard Tapie broke the record for crossing the Atlantic in a monohull with this boat in June. Bernard Tapie is personally on board for the crossing as owner.

The fire on February 18, 2021

Ex-wife of billionaire Nasser Al-Rashid, businessman Saudi real estate developer and personal friend of the King of Saudi Arabia Fahd ben Abdelaziz Al Saud, Mouna Ayoub buys Phocéa with the idea of ​​transforming it in depth. Little sensitive to the sporting spirit that animated Bernard Tapie, Mouna Ayoub replaced the light materials used for decoration by the latter with heavier materials, in the tradition of luxury yachting. It also reduces the size of the masts and the sails, hampered by the significant angle of heel of the boat under sail. Finally, she adds a floor to have more space. Mouna Ayoub thus spends a total of 17 million dollars in modifications, development and decoration work. In the opinion of all observers of the yachting world, these changes are not very flattering for the Phocéa: the formerly slender line is weighed down by the shortening of the masts and the addition of a floor, as well as by the use of the color white for the superstructure which “stands out” visually much more. In addition, the ship has become 60% heavier and has lost 35% of sail area, making its performance under sail, once exceptional, much more common. Mouna Ayoub makes Phocéa her personal address and rents it out from €196 per week. The new owners of the Phocéa continue to offer it on charter.

In 2010, Mouna Ayoub resold the yacht for approximately 10 million euros to Xavier Niel, associated with brothers Steve and Jean-Émile Rosenblum, the founders of the Pixmania site. The yacht is registered in Luxembourg. It is owned by a Maltese company, Phocea Limited. This in turn is 50% owned by the NJJ Capital holding company (French company owned by Xavier Niel) and the Dotcorp Finance holding company (Luxembourg company owned by the Rosenblum brothers). On the occasion of the disclosure of the "Malta Files", the financial arrangement used for the management of Phocéa is highlighted.

The Phocéa sank after being partially destroyed by fire on February 18, 2021 while anchored in the Langkawi archipelago in Malaysia.

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Bernard Tapie, l'histoire d'un record de l'Atlantique sur le yacht de luxe Phocéa

Atteint d'un cancer depuis plusieurs années, Bernard Tapie s'est éteint à son domicile ce dimanche 3 octobre 2021 au matin. Homme d'affaires, homme politique, acteur, il était aussi un amoureux de la mer. Retour sur un record de transatlantique effectuée à bord de son yacht de luxe Phocéa, en équipage.

Un refit pour être plus performant

Bernard Tapie était un véritable touche-à-tout, mêlant de front plusieurs carrières et hobbies. Dont un qui nous intéresse plus particulièrement, la voile.

En 1982, Bernard Tapie rachète l'ancien Club Méditerranée à la veuve d' Alain Colas . Rapatrié de Tahiti à Marseille , le voilier doté de 4 mâts est entièrement refité. L'homme d'affaires le transforme en luxueux yacht à voile, mais n'omet pas le côté sportif du bateau, privilégiant l'utilisation de matériaux légers. Avec une longueur de 74,37 m, le Phocéa est à l'époque, le plus grand yacht du monde, détrôné en 2004 par l'Athena.

Battre le record de l'Atlantique à la voile en monocoque

Après 4 années de travaux et 10 millions d'euros engagés (68 millions de francs), Phocéa (son nouveau nom) est prêt à battre des records. C'est d'ailleurs l'objectif que s'est fixé son armateur. Après une première tentative échouée, Bernard Tapie tente en juin 1988, de battre le record de l'Atlantique d'ouest en est en monocoque. Ce record est à l'époque détenu par Atlantic , goélette de Charlie Barr en 12 jours, 4 heures, 1 minute et 19 secondes.

Au départ de New-York, il confie la barre du Phocéa au capitaine Jean-Luc Pinon, secondé par Pierre Gaillet. Sont également présents deux barreurs chefs de quart Frank Dambrin et François Prévost. Au total, 20 personnes sont présentes à bord, dont un journaliste de TF1 censé raconter chaque jour l'épopée durant le journal télévisé, et bien sûr, Bernard Tapie lui-même.

Un record dangereux

Selon les témoins, au bout de deux jours, le bateau s'englue dans la molle, ce qui fait perdre patience à son propriétaire. Une tempête est alors annoncée et, contre l'avis du capitaine, Bernard Tapie décide de maintenir le cap et de continuer sa traversée, mettant en danger son équipage. Il s'en rendra d'ailleurs compte à la fin de la traversée.

Au total, le quatre-mâts se couchera et se relèvera à 4 reprises, rossé par les vagues , immenses. Pour l'anecdote, le journaliste du bord avait même fait un coma tétanique, incapable de bouger, paralysé par la peur.

Phocéa, pourvu de 2 spis, 4 génois et 2 grand-voiles – 3 000 m2 de toile au total – avale les milles – plus de 400 milles certains jours – à des vitesses avoisinant les 20 nœuds. Parvenant à surmonter la tempête , l'équipage rallie Saint-Malo au bout de 8 jours, 3 h et 29 minutes, avec une vitesse moyenne de 14,96 nœuds sur un parcours de 2925 milles. Il bat ainsi le record de Charlie Barr de 4 jours.

Record battu

S'il bat le record de l'Atlantique de Charlie Barr, et de plusieurs multicoques de course de l'époque, son record n'est homologué par le WSSR – homologation des records à la voile – que dans la catégorie 5c (des voiliers dotés d'assistance par des énergies auxiliaires, ici des winches à assistance hydraulique).

Saisi en 1996 aux mains de Bernard Tapie, le Phocéa est racheté à plusieurs reprises, avant de prendre feu en février 2021 en Malaisie .

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Le Phocéa, le destin rocambolesque d'un voilier de course devenu yacht de luxe

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P assé du navigateur Alain Colas à l'homme d'affaires français Bernard Tapie , le Phocéa, voilier taillé pour la course au large en solitaire et transformé en yacht de luxe, a connu une destinée rocambolesque pour finir coulé au large de la Malaisie .

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"J'en ai chialé tellement c'est triste", a confié dimanche à l' AFP Bernard Tapie , après avoir appris la fin du navire.

Le quatre-mâts de 72 mètres a sombré vendredi matin à proximité de l'île touristique de Langkawi, au lendemain d'un incendie qui l'a dévasté, a déclaré à l' AFP Mohamad Zawawi Abdullah, un haut responsable des garde-côtes malaisiens. Sept membres d'équipage ont été sauvés par les secours.

Il restera de ces navires qui ont fait rêver les amoureux de la mer mais dont l'histoire mouvementée aboutit à une fin tragique.

Le navigateur Alain Colas avait confié à l'architecte naval Michel Bigouin, concepteur de plusieurs des Pen Duick d' Eric Tabarly , le soin de créer à Toulon ce monstre pour la Transat anglaise de 1976. Course qu'il termine... derrière Tabarly après une avarie.

Baptisé Club Méditerranée, le voilier ultra-moderne n'aura pas d'autre opportunité de connaître la gloire en course et se retrouve amarré à Tahiti après la disparition d'Alain Colas en mer à bord du Manureva en 1978.

"Je l'ai découvert en Polynésie en 1982, rouillé de partout, il servait de ponton d'amarrage", a raconté dimanche à l'AFP Bernard Tapie, "tombé fou amoureux de ce navire" qu'il rachète à la veuve d'Alain Colas et rebaptise "Phocéa".

L'"envie folle" de l'homme d'affaires ? "En faire un bateau extrêmement performant et extrêmement confortable" et "battre le record" de la traversée de l'Atlantique d'Ouest en Est datant de 1905.

Le navire est rénové et modernisé par le même Michel Bigouin, ses mâts rehaussés, sa voilure augmentée. En juillet 1988, Bernard Tapie et son équipage quittent New York et essuient "une très forte tempête: le navire s'est couché deux fois et a croisé deux icebergs". Mais huit jours plus tard, la côte française. Le record est pulvérisé de quatre jours.

Yacht pour jet-set

"Tous mes meilleurs souvenirs, sportifs, humains, économiques, sont nés sur ce bateau", souffle l'ancien président de l'Olympique de Marseille, homme d'affaires et ministre.

Il s'en servira d'ailleurs pour des "séminaires". "Il y a beaucoup de gens qui étaient très heureux de faire un tour à bord du Phocéa", raconte M. Tapie.

Les ennuis financiers et judiciaires de l'homme d'affaires conduisent au rachat du navire en 1997 par la femme d'affaires libanaise Mouna Ayoub.

La milliardaire en fait un yacht de grand luxe pour recevoir la jet-set mondiale, elle réduit la hauteur des mâts, augmente la surface habitable, et le revend en 2010. Quelques années plus tard, une vente aux enchères de plus de 1.000 objets provenant du Phocéa lui rapportera 414.000 euros. Des robes haute couture vendues à cette occasion rapporteront bien plus que la cloche de pont gravée "Phocéa" adjugée à 1.400 euros.

Pour sa quatrième vie, c'est un tandem associant le milliardaire Xavier Niel et les frères Steve et Jean-Émile Rosenblum, fondateurs du site Pixmania, qui rachète le Phocéa et l'enregistre à Malte dans l'optique de le louer à de riches plaisanciers, selon Mediapart.

Ils en confient la gestion à Pascal Saken, un homme se présentant comme un "homme d'affaires international et investisseur du Vanuatu" et consul honoraire de cet archipel du Pacifique. La police de Papouasie-Nouvelle-Guinée le soupçonnera de trafic d'armes et de drogues, selon la presse locale.

Endommagé dans une tempête en 2013, le Phocéa est convoyé dans un chantier naval de Phuket (Thaïlande) appartenant à Pascal Saken, qui n'hésite pas à se prétendre propriétaire du bateau qu'il a rebaptisé "Enigma".

L'Enigma naviguait depuis en Malaisie où il a pris feu et sombré. Une enquête été ouverte pour déterminer les causes de l'incendie, selon les garde-côtes.

21/02/2021 13:47:01 -           Paris (AFP) -          © 2021 AFP

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Yacht once owned by French tycoon Bernard Tapie sinks off Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR (AFP) - A multimillion-dollar sailing yacht that once belonged to French tycoon Bernard Tapie has sunk off the coast of Malaysia, an official confirmed on Sunday (Feb 21), after it caught fire a few days ago.

Malaysia's coastguard said the 75m Phocea sank near the holiday island of Langkawi early Friday morning, a day after a blaze engulfed the four-masted yacht.

"We believed it sank on Friday morning, at about 5am or 6am," senior coastguard official Mohamad Zawawi Abdullah told AFP.

"We managed to control the fire, but the damage to the hull caused by the fire may have caused the yacht to sink."

He added that government officials were investigating the cause of the fire, and that the agent in charge of the vessel had been informed of the sinking.

Seven crew members were saved from the vessel after rescuers were alerted to the fire on Thursday.

Built for French sailor Alain Colas in 1976, the yacht was owned by Mr Tapie in the 1980s and 1990s.

It was later sold to a wealthy Lebanese woman for 36.5 million francs (S$12 million today), according to media reports.

Mr Tapie is a former Socialist minister who rose from humble beginnings to build a sporting and media empire, but later faced a string of legal problems.

He made a fortune in the early part of his career by taking over failing companies, and flaunted his wealth. As well as the yacht, he bought a football club.

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The 75-meter yacht Phocea sank after a fire off the coast of Malaysia

Sailing yacht Phocea (formerly Enigma) was one of the Top 10 largest sailing ships in the world.

On Friday, February 19, the 75-meter sailboat Phocea, owned between 1980 and 1990 by the former owner of Adidas Corporation, Bernard Tapi, sank off the coast of Malaysia. Speaking to Agence France-Presse, the Malaysian Coast Guard confirmed that Engima sank around 5-6 am on 19 February. The cause of the crash was a fire that occurred on the deck of the boat.

Crew members of the yacht Phocea, which is ninth largest sailing yacht in the world, turned to the Langkawi Marine Rescue Center and the Malaysian Maritime Agency MMEA for help. Firefighting began around 8:18 local time, however, despite the Coast Guard being able to contain the fire, the damage to the hull was too severe, causing the yacht to sink. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Director of the Kedah and Perlis MMEA, 1st Naval Admiral Mohd Zawawi Abdullah noted that although wind conditions "difficult the operation", seven crew members were successfully transferred to the Tenggol patrol catamaran. All of them are safe and sound. Abdullah also said that no oil spills were recorded. Now MMEA experts continue to monitor the situation.  

It is noted that the 75.12-meter yacht Phocea was built in 1976 at the shipyard of Toulon, France, especially for the single yachtsman Alain Cole. In 1986, she was converted into a cruise boat for the French entrepreneur, ex-owner of Adidas and President of Olympique Marseille, Bernard Tapie. Later, in 1999, the yacht was sold to Mouna Ayoub and refitted during a refit at Lürssen.

In 2010, the yacht was purchased by its current owners, whose names are not known.

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75m sailing yacht Phocea sinks after fire

The 75 metre sailing yacht Phocea (previously Enigma) has sunk off the coast of Malaysia after the yacht caught fire last week.

Speaking to Agence France-Presse, the Malaysian coastguard confirmed that Phocea sank at around 5am or 6am on February 19. 

The yacht, which is the ninth-largest sailing yacht in the world , was filmed on fire in strong wind conditions after the blaze was discovered by a local patrol vessel. It is reported that while the coastguard was able to control the fire, the damage to the hull was too severe and caused the yacht to sink. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

The vessel requested the assistance of the Langkawi Maritime Rescue Sub Centre and Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency MMEA which began fighting the fire at around 8.18 am local time.

Kedah and Perlis MMEA director, Maritime First Admiral Mohd Zawawi Abdullah said the wind conditions were “making the operation difficult”.

“The seven crewmen were successfully transferred to KM Tenggol and they are safe and unhurt,” he said in a statement. “No oil spill was reported and we will continue monitoring the situation”.

The 75.12 metre Phocea was first built in 1976 for single-handed yachtsman Alain Colas as Club Mediterranée. In 1986 it was converted into a cruising yacht for French entrepreneur Bernard Tapie.

The yacht was then sold to Mouna Ayoub in 1999 and modernised during a refit at Lürssen . The yacht was sold again in 2010 to her current owners.

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Mort du petit Emile : « La zone où ont été découverts les ossements avait été fouillée »

Mort du petit emile : la mère d’un jeune agriculteur accablé par des rumeurs prend la parole, benjamin biolay estime que sa fille anna « suit les pas de sa mère », chiara mastroianni, le phocéa, l'ancien yacht de bernard tapie, a coulé au large de la malaisie.

Le voilier Phocéa, ancien bateau de l'homme d'affaires Bernard Tapie, a coulé au large de la Malaisie au lendemain d'un incendie qui l'a dévasté. 

Passé du navigateur Alain Colas à l'homme d'affaires français Bernard Tapie, le Phocéa , voilier taillé pour la course au large en solitaire et transformé en yacht de luxe, a connu une destinée rocambolesque pour finir coulé au large de la Malaisie. «J'en ai chialé tellement c'est triste», a confié dimanche à l'AFP Bernard Tapie, après avoir appris la fin du navire. Le quatre-mâts de 72 mètres a sombré vendredi matin à proximité de l'île touristique de Langkawi, au lendemain d'un incendie qui l'a dévasté, a déclaré à l'AFP Mohamad Zawawi Abdullah, un haut responsable des garde-côtes malaisiens. Sept membres d'équipage ont été sauvés par les secours. Il restera de ces navires qui ont fait rêver les amoureux de la mer mais dont l'histoire mouvementée aboutit à une fin tragique.

Le navigateur Alain Colas avait confié à l'architecte naval Michel Bigouin, concepteur de plusieurs des Pen Duick d'Eric Tabarly, le soin de créer à Toulon ce monstre pour la Transat anglaise de 1976. Course qu'il termine... derrière Tabarly après une avarie. Baptisé Club Méditerranée, le voilier ultra-moderne n'aura pas d'autre opportunité de connaître la gloire en course et se retrouve amarré à Tahiti après la disparition d'Alain Colas en mer à bord du Manureva en 1978. «Je l'ai découvert en Polynésie en 1982, rouillé de partout, il servait de ponton d'amarrage», a raconté dimanche à l'AFP Bernard Tapie, «tombé fou amoureux de ce navire» qu'il rachète à la veuve d'Alain Colas et rebaptise «Phocéa».

L'«envie folle» de l'homme d'affaires ? «En faire un bateau extrêmement performant et extrêmement confortable» et «battre le record» de la traversée de l'Atlantique d'Ouest en Est datant de 1905. Le navire est rénové et modernisé par le même Michel Bigouin, ses mâts rehaussés, sa voilure augmentée. En juillet 1988, Bernard Tapie et son équipage quittent New York et essuient «une très forte tempête: le navire s'est couché deux fois et a croisé deux icebergs». Mais huit jours plus tard, la côte française. Le record est pulvérisé de quatre jours.

Yacht pour jet-set

«Tous mes meilleurs souvenirs, sportifs, humains, économiques, sont nés sur ce bateau», souffle l'ancien président de l'Olympique de Marseille, homme d'affaires et ministre. Il s'en servira d'ailleurs pour des «séminaires». «Il y a beaucoup de gens qui étaient très heureux de faire un tour à bord du Phocéa», raconte Bernard Tapie.

Les ennuis financiers et judiciaires de l'homme d'affaires conduisent au rachat du navire en 1997 par la femme d'affaires libanaise Mouna Ayoub. La milliardaire en fait un yacht de grand luxe pour recevoir la jet-set mondiale, elle réduit la hauteur des mâts, augmente la surface habitable, et le revend en 2010. Quelques années plus tard, une vente aux enchères de plus de 1.000 objets provenant du Phocéa lui rapportera 414.000 euros. Des robes haute couture vendues à cette occasion rapporteront bien plus que la cloche de pont gravée «Phocéa» adjugée à 1.400 euros.

Pour sa quatrième vie, c'est un tandem associant le milliardaire Xavier Niel et les frères Steve et Jean-Émile Rosenblum, fondateurs du site Pixmania, qui rachète le Phocéa et l'enregistre à Malte dans l'optique de le louer à de riches plaisanciers, selon Mediapart. Ils en confient la gestion à Pascal Saken, un homme se présentant comme un "homme d'affaires international et investisseur du Vanuatu" et consul honoraire de cet archipel du Pacifique. La police de Papouasie-Nouvelle-Guinée le soupçonnera de trafic d'armes et de drogues, selon la presse locale.

Endommagé dans une tempête en 2013, le Phocéa est convoyé dans un chantier naval de Phuket (Thaïlande) appartenant à Pascal Saken, qui n'hésite pas à se prétendre propriétaire du bateau qu'il a rebaptisé «Enigma». L'Enigma naviguait depuis en Malaisie où il a pris feu et sombré. Une enquête été ouverte pour déterminer les causes de l'incendie, selon les garde-côtes.

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Humanitaires tués à gaza : qui étaient les employés de l’ong américaine , un séisme historique frappe taïwan, les premières images du désastre, fusillade en finlande : un mort et deux blessés dans une école, le suspect de 12 ans arrêté, les images amusantes de la chasse aux œufs de pâques à la maison-blanche avec jill et joe biden, le tropicana de las vegas ferme ses portes : la fin d’un mythique casino, entre stars et mafia, humanitaires tués à gaza : le chagrin du patron de l’ong américaine world central kitchen, donald trump dépose une garantie 175 millions de dollars et échappe à des saisies judiciaires.

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Why were so many metro stations in Moscow renamed?

Okhotny Ryad station in Soviet times and today.

The Moscow metro system has 275 stations, and 28 of them have been renamed at some point or other—and several times in some cases. Most of these are the oldest stations, which opened in 1935.

The politics of place names

The first station to change its name was Ulitsa Kominterna (Comintern Street). The Comintern was an international communist organization that ceased to exist in 1943, and after the war Moscow authorities decided to call the street named after it something else. In 1946, the station was renamed Kalininskaya. Then for several days in 1990, the station was called Vozdvizhenka, before eventually settling on Aleksandrovsky Sad, which is what it is called today.

The banner on the entraince reads: "Kalininskaya station." Now it's Alexandrovsky Sad.

Until 1957, Kropotkinskaya station was called Dvorets Sovetov ( Palace of Soviets ). There were plans to build a monumental Stalinist high-rise on the site of the nearby Cathedral of Christ the Saviour , which had been demolished. However, the project never got off the ground, and after Stalin's death the station was named after Kropotkinskaya Street, which passes above it.

Dvorets Sovetov station, 1935. Letters on the entrance: "Metro after Kaganovich."

Of course, politics was the main reason for changing station names. Initially, the Moscow Metro itself was named after Lazar Kaganovich, Joseph Stalin’s right-hand man. Kaganovich supervised the construction of the first metro line and was in charge of drawing up a master plan for reconstructing Moscow as the "capital of the proletariat."

In 1955, under Nikita Khrushchev's rule and during the denunciation of Stalin's personality cult, the Moscow Metro was named in honor of Vladimir Lenin.

Kropotkinskaya station, our days. Letters on the entrance: "Metropolitan after Lenin."

New Metro stations that have been opened since the collapse of the Soviet Union simply say "Moscow Metro," although the metro's affiliation with Vladimir Lenin has never officially been dropped.

Zyablikovo station. On the entrance, there are no more signs that the metro is named after Lenin.

Stations that bore the names of Stalin's associates were also renamed under Khrushchev. Additionally, some stations were named after a neighborhood or street and if these underwent name changes, the stations themselves had to be renamed as well.

Until 1961 the Moscow Metro had a Stalinskaya station that was adorned by a five-meter statue of the supreme leader. It is now called Semyonovskaya station.

Left: Stalinskaya station. Right: Now it's Semyonovskaya.

The biggest wholesale renaming of stations took place in 1990, when Moscow’s government decided to get rid of Soviet names. Overnight, 11 metro stations named after revolutionaries were given new names. Shcherbakovskaya became Alekseyevskaya, Gorkovskaya became Tverskaya, Ploshchad Nogina became Kitay-Gorod and Kirovskaya turned into Chistye Prudy. This seriously confused passengers, to put it mildly, and some older Muscovites still call Lubyanka station Dzerzhinskaya for old times' sake.

At the same time, certain stations have held onto their Soviet names. Marksistskaya and Kropotkinskaya, for instance, although there were plans to rename them too at one point.

"I still sometimes mix up Teatralnaya and Tverskaya stations,” one Moscow resident recalls .

 “Both have been renamed and both start with a ‘T.’ Vykhino still grates on the ear and, when in 1991 on the last day of my final year at school, we went to Kitay-Gorod to go on the river cruise boats, my classmates couldn’t believe that a station with that name existed."

The city government submitted a station name change for public discussion for the first time in 2015. The station in question was Voykovskaya, whose name derives from the revolutionary figure Pyotr Voykov. In the end, city residents voted against the name change, evidently not out of any affection for Voykov personally, but mainly because that was the name they were used to.

What stations changed their name most frequently?

Some stations have changed names three times. Apart from the above-mentioned Aleksandrovsky Sad (Ulitsa Kominterna->Kalininskaya->Vozdvizhenka->Aleksandrovsky Sad), a similar fate befell Partizanskaya station in the east of Moscow. Opened in 1944, it initially bore the ridiculously long name Izmaylovsky PKiO im. Stalina (Izmaylovsky Park of Culture and Rest Named After Stalin). In 1947, the station was renamed and simplified for convenience to Izmaylovskaya. Then in 1963 it was renamed yet again—this time to Izmaylovsky Park, having "donated" its previous name to the next station on the line. And in 2005 it was rechristened Partizanskaya to mark the 60th anniversary of victory in World War II. 

Partizanskaya metro station, nowadays.

Another interesting story involves Alekseyevskaya metro station. This name was originally proposed for the station, which opened in 1958, since a village with this name had been located here. It was then decided to call the station Shcherbakovskaya in honor of Aleksandr Shcherbakov, a politician who had been an associate of Stalin. Nikita Khrushchev had strained relations with Shcherbakov, however, and when he got word of it literally a few days before the station opening the builders had to hastily change all the signs. It ended up with the concise and politically correct name of Mir (Peace).

The name Shcherbakovskaya was restored in 1966 after Khrushchev's fall from power. It then became Alekseyevskaya in 1990.

Alekseyevskaya metro station.

But the station that holds the record for the most name changes is Okhotny Ryad, which opened in 1935 on the site of a cluster of market shops. When the metro system was renamed in honor of Lenin in 1955, this station was renamed after Kaganovich by way of compensation. The name lasted just two years though because in 1957 Kaganovich fell out of favor with Khrushchev, and the previous name was returned. But in 1961 it was rechristened yet again, this time in honor of Prospekt Marksa, which had just been built nearby.

Okhotny Ryad station in 1954 and Prospekt Marksa in 1986.

In 1990, two historical street names—Teatralny Proyezd and Mokhovaya Street—were revived to replace Prospekt Marksa, and the station once again became Okhotny Ryad.

Okhotny Ryad in 2020.

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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