Considering a stroll that reveals a hidden history? Then you are at the right place here at Boulevard Olive. This boulevard is not named for olive trees. Its origin lies with a family. Let me tell you the story of how the Boulevard Olive got its unusual name.
Back in 1466, a couple named Simon Olive and Jeanne Davin acquired land. They were nourriguiers. That is the Provençal word for shepherd. Paul Marsan granted them a lease on February 10th. The land sat between Château-Gombert and Saint-Julien. Simon Olive and his wife settled there. Naturally, the place became known as Les Olives. After their death, their children created the Domaine des Olives. Later, their descendants formed the Hameau des Olives. So it was the Olive family. They gave their name to this area and eventually to Boulevard Olive.
The area of Les Olives grew over time. In 1660, the Olives church was built. The inhabitants paid for an expansion in 1759. By the early 19th century, the church became a branch parish of Allauch. Today, the original village sits on a small rocky hill. The Jarret River flows nearby. It is a tributary of the Huveaune River. The Jarret stretches for 21 kilometers. It marks the northern edge of Les Olives.
Les Olives is part of Marseille’s 13th arrondissement. It is surrounded by several other districts. These include Croix-Rouge, Montolivet, Rose, Saint-Julien, and Trois-Lucs. In 2012, Les Olives had a population of 15,181. The area covers 3.183 square kilometers.
Several key streets define Les Olives. These include Avenue des Poilus and Rue de la Maurelle. The Canal de Marseille also plays a role. It irrigates the eastern part of the area. Before passing under the Marionne tunnel, which is 1,135 meters long. The canal supported agricultural development in the area.
The Église Notre-Dame-des-Grâces et Saint-Paul is a notable landmark. Its construction dates back to 1660. It was expanded in 1759. The bell tower was built with cut stones in 1817. The Vélodrome des Olives is another key site. It was built in 1975.
Other notable locations include Les Maisons de Marie. This retirement home was built in 1974. It features white buildings. It has a design reminiscent of a béguinage.
The Boulevard Olive and its surrounding area boasts a rich history. Its name is not about olive trees but a family. This family shaped the area’s identity. As you stroll along Boulevard Olive, remember Simon Olive. Remember Jeanne Davin. They were the original settlers who gave this place its name. Their legacy continues to live on in the heart of Marseille.