Wondering where the Lotissement Parc des Olives got its name? This neighborhood in Marseille’s 13th arrondissement has a story that might surprise you. It’s not about olive trees.
The Lotissement Parc des Olives actually owes its name to a family. Back in 1466, Simon Olive and Jeanne Davin acquired land here. They were nourriguiers. That means they were Provençal shepherds. They named their new home Les Olives. Their children later formed the domaine des Olives. After that, their descendants created the hameau des Olives. So, the Olive family, not the olive tree, gave the Lotissement Parc des Olives its identity.
Now, let’s talk about the church in the Lotissement Parc des Olives. It’s called the Olives church. It was first built around 1660. Then, in 1759, the residents paid to make it bigger. In the early 19th century, it became a branch parish of Allauch.
The original village of the Lotissement Parc des Olives sits on a small rocky hill. The Jarret River flows through the neighborhood. It is a tributary of the Huveaune. It runs for 21 kilometers.
The Lotissement Parc des Olives is not just history. The Ensemble of nine buildings here was delivered in 1960. Jean Rozan was the architect. The exterior got a makeover in 1977. There was more work done from 1983 to 1987. This included insulating the gables. It also added new paint colors.
The design features bars of different lengths. These are limited to four stories. The entrances are simple.
Today, the Lotissement Parc des Olives is a vibrant part of Marseille. It has a population of over 15,000 residents. You can reach it by bus. Several lines serve the area including lines 2, 4, 4B, 6 and 39.
The Lotissement Parc des Olives offers green spaces. The Canal de Marseille runs through it. The velodrome provides a space for sports. You can also find schools and local shops.
So, remember the story of Simon Olive and Jeanne Davin. Their family’s name lives on in this special corner of Marseille. The Lotissement Parc des Olives is more than just a place. It is a reminder of the people who shaped it.