Whispers of a bygone era linger here at Campagne Rousselier. It stands as a testament to Marseille’s rich tapestry of history and culture. This historic manor whispers stories of families and transformations.
Campagne Rousselier benefits from its location in a vast public park of 112 hectares. This park alternates between wild Mediterranean vegetation and structured landscaped areas. The park offers various activities including a health trail and an equestrian center.
Let’s step back to 1836 when Eugénie Pastré purchased a seven-hectare property. It bordered the Madrague road. The estate had fruit trees, a well, and a 90 square meter country house.
Eugénie Pastré continued expanding the property between 1840 and 1847. She acquired land from the Clary family including land belonging to the half-brother of the Queen of Sweden. This expansion created a family strategy.
In 1966 the City of Marseille started purchasing the Campagne Pastré from Countess Lily Pastré and her descendants. Lily Pastré was a patron. She protected many threatened artists in her castle during the Occupation.
Lily Pastré made her property a thriving center for European culture during the Second World War. Around 40 artists resided there permanently including Francis Poulenc and André Masson.
Lily Pastré was part of Varian Fry’s network. He was sent to Marseille to organize the escape of personalities. He eventually saved over two thousand people including Claude Lévi-Strauss and Marc Chagall.
In July 1942 Lily organized an outdoor production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Shakespeare was banned as was the composer Jacques Ibert. Christian Bérard used the castle curtains for costumes. They burned after the performance.
Lily Pastré initiated the creation of the Aix-en-Provence Lyric Art Festival in 1948. She rented land to Abbé Pierre for a token amount. His Emmaus community still lives there today.
Today Campagne Pastré is an immense public park. Its central alley extends over 900 meters. The park offers small lakes, a canal, play areas, and hiking trails. The upper part of the park retains its wild character. It opens onto the Marseilleveyre hills and the Calanques. A water garden exists in the lower part. This highlights the importance of the Canal de Marseille created 100 years ago.
Campagne Rousselier stands as a silent witness to Marseille’s evolution. It has adapted with time. It remains a green lung for the city. Take a moment to appreciate the layers of history. Consider the lives touched by this remarkable place. Campagne Rousselier is a true treasure.