High above the village stands Notre-Dame du Château. This 12th-century chapel offers breathtaking views. Allauch a town nestled in the hills dear to Marcel Pagnol’s heart boasts a rich history. Prehistoric man once inhabited this area as evidenced by fossil-like traces.
Legend whispers that Gyptis a beautiful young woman from Allauch married Protis a man from Phocaea. Their union in 600 BC is said to have marked the birth of Marseille. Allauch’s importance in this story is undeniable.
Today Allauch covers 52 square kilometers. Its population is spread across several districts. The Bastide Neuve Pagnol’s holiday home stands proudly. The peaks of the Pagnol hills Taoumée Tête Ronde and the Grande and Petite Tête Rouge are also within Allauch’s boundaries. Explore the Pichauris departmental park and enjoy the numerous walks among the hills.
The Place des Moulins is a site worth visiting. The Camoin and Ricard mills have been restored. You can visit the Ricard mill every Sunday. From the esplanade an orientation table helps you admire Marseille and the Étoile mountain range. Place du Docteur Joseph Chevillon with its church of Saint-Sébastien retains its Provençal charm.
A local legend says throwing a stone into the chapel alcove without it falling brings good luck. Every Allaudian knows this tale. The town’s coat of arms reflects a historical event. In the 10th century Saracens besieged the village. Facing starvation villagers cleverly tricked the enemy. They sent loaves and spear points creating a false impression of abundance. The Saracens left believing the village was well-defended. This clever deception is depicted in Allauch’s coat of arms: three stars a crescent moon and two silver wings.
Allauch’s history also includes contraband tobacco in the 19th century. It was a major activity surpassing even stone quarries and plasterworks. The construction of the Canal de Marseille marked a turning point. Running water arrived in 1888 bringing new prosperity. An electric tram connected Marseille to Allauch in 1908. This ended the town’s isolation. In 1966 Allauch was classified as an urban commune.
Allauch continues to thrive. It balances preserving its natural beauty with modern development. A testament to the town’s enduring spirit. Explore this captivating blend of history and nature. A true gem in the heart of Provence.