“Two saints perhaps?” Legend whispers around Saint-Giniez. This district bears a name shrouded in holy mystery.
Saint-Giniez. It is a vibrant quarter in Marseille’s 8th arrondissement. Today we will explore its story. We will discover its history. We will learn why it is called Saint-Giniez.
Once Saint-Giniez was two villages. They were called Grand Saint-Giniez and Petit Saint-Giniez. These villages grew around the local parish church.
So who was Saint Giniez? Two possibilities exist. One is Genesius of Arles. He was martyred around 308 AD. The other is a Roman actor. This actor converted to Christianity. Both saints are celebrated on August 25th.
Saint-Giniez has changed over time. In the 19th century, it was a country village. Later it attracted wealthy residents. Grand villas appeared.
The Huveaune River marks the southern boundary of Saint-Giniez. The area was once marshland. Monks drained these marshes. They created land for farming and mills.
Today Saint-Giniez is well-connected. Buses and the Metro serve the area. The Avenue du Prado runs through it. This avenue is a major thoroughfare.
Saint-Giniez is divided into two parts. The Grand Saint-Giniez is lively. It has shops and hotels. The Petit Saint-Giniez is quieter. It features residential streets and smaller shops.
The area has landmarks. The Stade Vélodrome is here. It is home to Marseille’s football team. The Cathédrale Arménienne des Saints Traducteurs also stands in Saint-Giniez.
The Armenian Cathedral is dedicated to translators. Saint Mesrob-Mashtots invented the Armenian alphabet. He and his disciples translated the Bible. Armenia was the first Christian state.
The architecture reflects different eras. There are Art Deco villas. Modern buildings also dot the landscape. An example of modern architecture is Le Grand Pavois. It is one of Marseille’s tallest buildings.
Saint-Giniez continues to evolve. New buildings appear. It remains a sought-after area. Saint-Giniez offers a blend of history and modern life.
Take a moment to appreciate Saint-Giniez. From its possibly dual namesake to its modern buildings, it is a place to remember. It is a piece of Marseille. Saint-Giniez is a great place to live and visit.