Along Boulevard Rocca a whisper of history unfolds. This isn’t just any street. Boulevard Rocca in Marseille holds the legacy of the Rocca family. A Genoese family that made their mark on Marseille. Their story is one of commerce and resilience.
The Rocca family originally hailed from Gênes. They built a successful business. It involved oils cereals and maritime supplies. Jean-Baptiste Rocca born in 1755 was the first of the family to become known. After his death in 1816 the business split. His son François moved to Marseille. He joined his brother Pellegro who had established the Comptoir Marseillais in 1810. François’s wife Elisa Pagliano brought a substantial dowry. It included 40000 francs and land near Place Castellane. They sold this land. They used the money to purchase a large estate in Saint-Giniez.
After François’s death in 1880 the estate was divided. A portion known as the Rocca-Prado-Paradis-Mermoz went to Emilien his grandson. Emilien was an oil merchant. He worked at Rocca-Tassy de Roux. He was a member of the Chamber of Commerce. He lived at Campagne Rocca 550 Rue Paradis. The family lived at 2 Rue Rocca until 1987 when they sold the house.
Boulevard Rocca itself was classified on December 22 1893. It was originally known as Boulevard Saint Thomas. It underwent name changes. The name Boulevard Emile Sicard encompassed the section between Rue Rocca and the Prado. The name change to Rue Rocca happened in 1927. It reflects the family’s lasting impact on the area. Boulevard Rocca is a testament to the Rocca family’s entrepreneurial spirit. It’s a reminder of their contributions to Marseille’s economic and social fabric. The Boulevard Rocca is more than just a street. It’s a living monument. It speaks of a family’s journey and success. The boulevard’s very existence echoes their name and legacy. As you walk along Boulevard Rocca take a moment to reflect on the Rocca family’s impressive history. Their story is interwoven with the city’s own. It’s a story of international trade and family legacy. It’s a story of a family who left an indelible mark on Marseille.