Why is it called Boulevard des Neiges? This is the question that often dances on the lips of passersby. Let’s unravel the story behind this intriguing name. Boulevard des Neiges is located near Vieille-Chapelle at the crossing with avenue Pierre Mendès France in Marseille.
The name Boulevard des Neiges has a story rooted in architecture and faith. This name appeared in 1677. Back then a small chapel dedicated to Notre-Dame de Montserrat stood here. However time took its toll. The chapel fell into such disrepair that it had to be demolished.
Quickly a new sanctuary rose in its place. It was named Notre-Dame des Neiges. Yet fate seemed to have other plans. In 1724 this second church was also replaced. It was then sold during the Revolution as a national asset to resolve the financial crisis.
During the Restauration between 1814 and 1830 the current church was built. It stands as the enduring Notre-Dame des Neiges. A subtle trace connects the boulevard to its origins. The door from the very first chapel is said to now grace the Mutuelle Saint-Jean-Baptiste. This is a local mutual aid society founded in 1848. Boulevard des Neiges has a layered past. It began with a humble chapel. It evolved through revolution and restoration to become the street we see today.
While there is no record of snow-capped mountains influencing the naming of the Boulevard des Neiges, Marseille benefits from exceptional sunshine due to the mistral. The cold and dry northern wind blows an average of 93 days per year. The mistral clears the sky and brings the sun. Perhaps the sunshine makes the name Boulevard des Neiges seem even more special.
The sea also defines the city. Marseille has a 57-kilometer coastline. This includes 24 kilometers of calanques. There are also two small archipelagos of islands and islets Riou and Frioul. The calanques stretch over twenty kilometers of coastline between Les Goudes and Cassis. They attract a million visitors each year.
Marseille has been one of France’s most cosmopolitan cities since its origins. Its history is rich with Greek founders to a pivotal role in World War II. Boulevard des Neiges reflects Marseille’s resilience. It echoes in the city’s ability to rebuild and transform.
So as you stroll along Boulevard des Neiges remember its name isn’t about battles or distant peaks. It is about a series of churches. These churches gave the boulevard its unique and memorable name. It is a story etched in stone and whispered by the wind. It is a gentle reminder of Marseille’s long and fascinating past.