Gazing down Rue Picon, a peculiar question arises. What connects this Marseille street to a popular French aperitif? Rue Picon isn’t just a street name. It’s a subtle nod to Gaétan Picon, the mind behind the iconic Amer Picon. Gaétan Picon’s story intertwines with Marseille’s vibrant history. Arriving in 1815, young Gaétan honed his skills in local distilleries. His path then took him to Algeria, where, serving in the army, he concocted a remedy for malaria. This blend of orange peel, quinquina, and gentian, dubbed “Amer Africain,” became so popular that Picon established factories in Algeria. The drink’s fame eventually reached France, where it was renamed “Amer Picon,” and a large factory was opened on Boulevard National in Marseille. A curious byproduct of Picon’s production was the sale of leftover oranges in Marseille markets, further cementing the Picon name in the city’s identity. Though his main factory wasn’t on Rue Picon itself, the street serves as a tribute. It reminds us of Gaétan Picon’s journey from apprentice to successful entrepreneur. So, as you stroll along Rue Picon, remember it’s more than just a street. It’s a taste of Marseille’s history, infused with the bittersweet tang of Amer Picon.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to