La Valentine

Hidden in plain sight on the eastern edge of Marseille, La Valentine isn’t just another shopping district. La Valentine holds a captivating history. It’s named after Jean Valentin, a 15th-century nobleman who established a fortified town here. Today, many flock to La Valentine for the modern amenities like IKEA and the cinema multiplexes. But La Valentine offers so much more. Its charming Old Town whispers tales of bygone eras. Restaurants housed in historic buildings offer a taste of Provence, from buttery croissants to the rich flavors of bouillabaisse. The Église de la Valentine, with its Romanesque façade, stands as a testament to the neighborhood’s enduring spirit. While the Centre Commercial Valentine bustles with shoppers seeking European brands, La Valentine also boasts a vibrant sporting scene. The cheers of fans echo through the Jouvène-Pierre-d’Acunto Stadium, home to the CAM Phenix soccer team. Just beyond the urban hustle, the greens of the Golf de Marseille Salette beckon, its fairways winding through a Provençal garden. For a quieter escape, the sprawling Nécropole des Vaudrans offers breathtaking views. Here, you can witness the sunrise paint the Huveaune valley or the sunset cast long shadows over the Marseille skyline. La Valentine rests in the 11th arrondissement, easily accessible by metro and a short drive from the city center or airport. And if you’re interested in local lore, seek out the 19th-century Brasserie Heineken. Once the home of Phoenix Beer, it remains a landmark in the history of brewing in southern France. La Valentine seamlessly blends the old and the new. It offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from historical charm to modern delights.