Les Trois-Lucs

Deep in the heart of Marseille, nestled between valleys and perched on the edge of the Beaumont plateau, lies Les Trois-Lucs. This intriguing name, whispered through centuries, has taken on many forms: Tras Lucs, Tres Lus, Treillux. Each variation carries a unique story, a thread in the rich tapestry of this historic neighborhood. Les Trois-Lucs sits at the easternmost point of Marseille, in the 12th arrondissement. It’s bordered by the neighborhoods of Caillols, Olives, and Valentine, and by the charming commune of Allauch. The area represents a key historical passage. It occupies a col between the Jarret Valley to the north and the Huveaune Valley to the south. Even the pétanque court near the crossroads whispers tales of bygone eras. One interpretation of the name, favored by historian Alfred Saurel and echoed in the stained-glass windows of Sainte-Rita Church, speaks of three sources of light. These lights served as beacons within the surveillance posts that once ringed Marseille. Another theory suggests “trelus” refers to the radiant glow of the rising sun, a theme explored in the pastoral Maurel. Linguist Albert Dauzat, however, connects “Luc” to the Latin “lucus,” meaning a wooded place, a fitting description given Les Trois-Lucs’ proximity to expansive forests. From 1914, a tramway connected Les Trois-Lucs to the bustling city center. The neighborhood became a weekend haven for city dwellers drawn to its lively guinguettes, vibrant dance halls, and spirited boules games. Beneath the surface, the Monnard caves, discovered in 1848, provided a vital water source for the Brasserie Phénix, later known as Heineken Group, until 1970. To this day, Heineken retains ownership of this hidden gem, despite the city’s attempts to claim it for the public domain in 1993. South of Les Trois-Lucs lies La Commanderie, the training ground for Olympique de Marseille, the city’s beloved football club. Les Trois-Lucs stands as a testament to the passage of time, where history intertwines with modern life, creating a unique and captivating experience for all who visit.