Imagine this grand old house before you. This is the Foyer Helvétique Les Charmerettes. It stands as a testament to a rich history. This history involves the Swiss community in Marseille.
Let’s delve into the story of this unique place. The Foyer Helvétique Les Charmerettes began with good intentions. The Swiss Consul General and generous Swiss citizens wanted to help. Their donations led to the purchase of this property. It would house the Foyer. They also deposited funds in Geneva. This money supported three charities within Marseille’s Swiss community.
The Foyer Helvétique Les Charmerettes aimed to aid elderly Swiss citizens. These individuals had lived in Marseille. They had reached retirement age without the means to return to Switzerland. They were isolated or had limited resources. It was a place of refuge.
From the 1940s, the Foyer opened its doors to French residents. This decision reflected the changing demographics. The Swiss presence in Marseille declined over time. Artisans were replaced by retirees.
By 1990, the Helvetia Massilia Foundation owned the building. The foundation sought to close the Foyer. They felt it no longer fulfilled its original purpose. Swiss residents were a minority. The foundation believed they were not in need. Some say the foundation wanted to reclaim the property. This magnificent estate included gardens in central Marseille. It was valued at millions of euros.
The Helvetia Massilia Foundation took legal action in 1999. They wanted the residents to leave Les Charmerettes. In 2012, the institution closed amidst community conflict. Residents were relocated. After 83 years, the Foyer Helvétique de Marseille ceased operations.
The institution faced financial difficulties. The court ordered its liquidation. This decision sparked controversy in Switzerland and France. The foundation initially planned to create student or artist residences. But later it sold part of the estate in 2020.
Initially, 8,000 square meters were sold. A private company planned to construct apartments. The foundation also negotiated with the local council. They considered ceding land to expand a nearby park.
However, part of the Swiss community opposed the sale. They included the Swiss Benevolent Society. They also included France Nature Environment. They filed appeals against construction permits. These permits allowed building apartments on the historic Charmerettes farm.
The story of Foyer Helvétique Les Charmerettes involves more than just buildings. It reflects community, philanthropy and cultural shifts.
Today, a plaque on the Bastide commemorates the Escolo de la Mar foundation. The plaque dates back to May 29, 1927. It celebrates 50 years of the Escolo. Seven friends from Marseille founded it. They aimed to preserve the language and traditions.
The Foyer Helvétique Les Charmerettes has witnessed much history. It is a reminder of the Swiss presence in Marseille. It also represents challenges of preserving heritage.