“Ever wonder who decides the names of our streets?” I ask, gesturing to the signpost above us. Today, our story unfolds right here on Rue Peyssonnel. This bustling artery cuts through Marseille’s 2nd and 3rd arrondissements. Rue Peyssonnel stretches an impressive 1155 meters. It runs in a straight line.
Let’s dive into the story behind its name. The street is named after Jean-André Peyssonnel. He was a French physician from the 18th century. Peyssonnel lived from 1694 to 1759. He surely never imagined a street in Marseille bearing his name.
Rue Peyssonnel officially became part of Marseille’s road system on June 6, 1878. The city council decided on the name on April 25, 1868. That’s when it was officially dedicated to Jean-André Peyssonnel.
As we walk along Rue Peyssonnel, notice how it parallels Boulevard de Paris to the west. To the east, it runs parallel to Rue de Ruffi. The street begins in the Villette district. It starts near Rue de Forbin. Camille-Pelletan Avenue and Place de Strasbourg are also nearby.
Keep an eye out for the modern residences lining the street. These buildings are part of the Euroméditerranée urban renewal project. The street concludes at Rue d’Anthoine in the Arenc district.
Rue Peyssonnel is also home to several notable places. At number 59 stands the La Blancarde nursing institute. This institution trains future healthcare professionals.
Between Rue Désirée-Clary and Rue Mirès, the street runs alongside the European Hospital of Marseille. This modern hospital opened in 2012. It replaced numerous businesses that once occupied the land. At the corner of Rue Mirès, you’ll find the Gaston-Defferre Library.
Also, between Boulevard Mirabeau and Rue Urbain-V, Rue Peyssonnel borders the Dock des Suds. It’s a vibrant venue for concerts and events.
Getting to Rue Peyssonnel is quite easy. Several bus lines stop nearby. Consider lines 70, 72, and 82. The closest stops are Arenc Euroméditerranée and Ruffi Urbain V. Both are just a short walk away.
So, as we continue our walk, remember Jean-André Peyssonnel. Think of the changes this street has seen. Rue Peyssonnel is more than just a road. It is a testament to Marseille’s history. It is a vibrant part of its present.