Beneath the serene surface of Marseille’s Parc Pastr\u00e9 lies a secret world. We are standing before the Grotte du Mur Pastr\u00e9. This cave entrance holds stories that stretch back through time.
The Campagne Pastr\u00e9 is a large park. It spans over 112 hectares in Marseille’s 8th arrondissement. Once, the Ville de Marseille gradually purchased this land from Countess Lily Pastr\u00e9 and her family. Lily Pastr\u00e9 was known as a patron of the arts. During World War II, she sheltered artists in her ch\u00e2teau.
At the heart of this verdant space stand three bastides. These are 19th-century country houses. They include the Ch\u00e2teau Pastr\u00e9, Ch\u00e2teau Estrangin and Ch\u00e2teau Sanderval. The Ch\u00e2teau Pastr\u00e9 itself was completed in 1862. Parisian architect Jean-Charles Danjoy designed it for Eug\u00e8ne Pastr\u00e9 and his wife C\u00e9line.
The Grotte du Mur Pastr\u00e9 is nearby. This cave offers a glimpse into the region’s natural history. The park’s grounds were acquired piece by piece. It began in 1836 when Eug\u00e9nie Pastr\u00e9 bought seven hectares. The property included fruit trees, vines, a well, and a bastide. The Pastr\u00e9 family expanded their estate significantly over the years. They strategically acquired neighboring parcels of land.
The Ch\u00e2teau Pastr\u00e9 briefly housed the Mus\u00e9e de la Fa\u00efence. From 1995 to 2013, the museum displayed over 1500 pieces. These pieces spanned 7000 years of history. The collection has since moved to the Ch\u00e2teau Bor\u00e9ly.
The Ch\u00e2teau Pastr\u00e9 has even graced the screen. It served as an exterior set for the TV show “Plus belle la vie”. In 2021, there was a proposition. The association “Pour Que Marseille Vive” suggested turning the ch\u00e2teau into an artist incubator. This project is still under negotiation with the city.
Imagine the stories these stones could tell. The Grotte du Mur Pastr\u00e9 stands as a testament to time. It connects us to Marseille’s rich past. As you explore the Campagne Pastr\u00e9, remember the generations who walked here before. Each element contributes to the unique tapestry of this beloved park. The Grotte du Mur Pastr\u00e9 invites us to reflect on history. It shows us how nature and culture intertwine.