Dreaming of olives? It is easy to imagine that Avenue des Olives owes its name to olive trees. That would be logical in Marseille. But the Avenue des Olives has a different story.
Let’s explore the real reason behind its name and its history. The Avenue des Olives is in Marseille’s 13th arrondissement. This district is near Croix-Rouge. It is also close to Montolivet, Rose, Saint-Julien, and Trois-Lucs districts.
So where does the name Avenue des Olives come from? It comes from the Olive family. Simon Olive and Jeanne Davin were “nourriguiers”. This is like a shepherd in Provence. On February 10, 1466, they acquired land from Paul Marsan. They naturally called it Les Olives. After they passed away their children created the “domaine des Olives”. Later, their descendants formed the “hameau des Olives”. This is how the Avenue des Olives got its unique name. It is not about the trees but about a family’s legacy.
In 1660, the Olives church was built. It was expanded in 1759 by the residents. By the early 19th century, the church became a branch parish of Allauch. The original village sits on a small rocky hill. The Jarret River flows through the Avenue des Olives area. This river is a tributary of the Huveaune and stretches for 21 kilometers.
The Avenue des Olives is more than just a street. It represents a long history. It shows a family’s influence on the area. The Avenue des Olives also has modern amenities. The area is served by bus lines 2, 4, 4B, 6, and 39.
Several important streets define the borders of the Avenue des Olives area. Allée Peiresc marks the southwest boundary. Other significant streets include Avenue Fournacle and Avenue des Poilus. Boulevard de la Comtesse and Chemin de La Marre are also nearby. Rue de la Crédoncé forms part of the southern border. You will also find Rue de la Maurelle and Rue du Verdal. Rue Ferdinand Chabot and Rue Granet are within the district. More recently Rue Mère Teresa was added.
The Avenue des Olives is home to several notable landmarks. The Église Notre-Dame-des-Grâces et Saint-Paul is on Place Granet. It was built in 1660 and expanded in 1759. Its bell tower was constructed in 1817 with cut stones. The Vélodrome des Olives is at 375 Avenue des Poilus. It was built in 1975 and renovated in 2008. Les Maisons de Marie is at 48 Avenue Fournacle. Built in 1974, it is a retirement home with a unique design.
Today, the Avenue des Olives is a vibrant part of Marseille. It is a place where history and modern life come together. As you explore, remember the Olive family. Remember the shepherds who shaped this community. This is the story of the Avenue des Olives. It is a story of family, faith, and community.