Did you know that Montée des Oliviers in Marseille doesn’t actually get its name from olive trees? It’s a fascinating story. The name actually comes from the Olive family. Imagine a time long ago in 1466. Simon Olive and Jeanne Davin a couple of nourriguiers purchased a plot of land. They named it Les Olives after themselves. Their descendants expanded this place into the hameau des Olives the hamlet of the Olives.
Montée des Oliviers a small rocky hill in the 13th arrondissement of Marseille boasts a rich history. This wasn’t just farmland. This area became a thriving community. Its strategic location close to Allauch made it an important part of the Marseille landscape.
The heart of the community was its church. Built in 1660 it served the residents for generations. An expansion in 1759 demonstrates the community’s growth and prosperity. In the 19th century the church received official recognition becoming a branch parish of Allauch.
The Jarret a tributary of the Huveaune river flows nearby. This 21 kilometer river served as an important waterway. It likely played a role in the daily lives of the Olive family and their community. Their ingenuity and resourcefulness ensured the survival and growth of their settlement on Montée des Oliviers.
Today Montée des Oliviers retains a unique character. While it’s no longer a small hamlet it still feels like a close-knit community. The Montée des Oliviers stands as a testament to this family’s legacy. It shows how a simple act of naming a place can leave a lasting impact on history. It’s a quiet corner but one with a powerful story to tell. A story of family hard work and community spirit.