“La maison s’appelait la Bastide Neuve but it had been new for a long time”. These words by Marcel Pagnol himself perfectly encapsulate the magic of this place. Right before you stands La Bastide Neuve. This isn’t just a house. It’s a portal to the cherished childhood memories of one of France’s most beloved authors.
La Bastide Neuve is more than a simple summer home. It’s a pivotal location in Pagnol’s literary works. The setting for countless adventures recounted in his “Souvenirs d’enfance”. Imagine young Marcel exploring these very hills. He chased lizards along the Chemin des Bellons. He played in the Vallon de Passe-Temps.
The house itself holds many secrets. It belonged to private owners for a long time. The city of Marseille renovated its facade and interior in 1976. A plaque commemorating its significance was added. A fig tree still stands tall near the house. The old copper tap connected to the cistern remains. Even the window screens are original.
Sadly the famous “cabinets” are gone. A storm swept them away in 1981. Many believe La Bastide Neuve to be in Marseille. It’s actually in Allauch a short distance from the city. The Pagnol family passed through La Treille on their way here. That’s a crucial detail many overlook.
La Bastide Neuve is more than bricks and mortar. It breathes the spirit of Provence. It whispers stories of family gatherings. It evokes the scent of sun-drenched hills and the sounds of childhood laughter. It’s a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. A tangible link to Marcel Pagnol’s timeless works. A place where imagination and reality beautifully intertwine. Take a moment. Breathe in the history. Feel the weight of the memories held within these walls. This is La Bastide Neuve a place where stories come alive.