Daviel Pavilion

The Pavillon Daviel in Marseille is a historic building located in the heart of the Le Panier district, one of the oldest and most picturesque areas of the city. Built between 1743 and 1747 by the Gérard brothers, the pavilion is named after the famous surgeon and ophthalmologist Jacques Daviel, known for performing the first cataract operation in 1745. The building was initially conceived as a Palace of Justice and later served as the town hall of Marseille until 1860. The architecture of the Pavillon Daviel is a magnificent example of 18th-century Provençal style. The elegant facade is decorated with sculptures by the artist Jean-Michel Verdiguier, and a wrought iron balcony with floral decorations adds a touch of sophistication. The choice of materials, especially the pink stone from the quarries of Cap Couronne, gives the building a distinctive and harmonious appearance. From a historical perspective, the Pavillon Daviel has a rich and sometimes dark past. During the French Revolution, the square in front of it, Place Daviel, was the scene of public executions with the guillotine, and the pavilion’s underground chambers were used as prisons. These dramatic events have deeply marked the city’s collective memory, making the pavilion a place rich in historical significance. Today, the Pavillon Daviel houses various municipal services and is mainly used for institutional and cultural events. Although not open to the public for regular visits, the building continues to be an important landmark for the city of Marseille, representing a tangible link to its past. The location of the Pavillon Daviel, in the vibrant Le Panier district, adds further charm to its history. Le Panier, with its narrow streets, colorful houses, and numerous cafes and boutiques, is one of the most charming places in Marseille. This neighborhood, which has preserved its authentic character despite urban transformations, offers a picturesque and evocative setting for the pavilion. From an artistic point of view, the pavilion and the surrounding neighborhood are often the subject of artworks and photographs, thanks to their beauty and historical value. Verdiguier’s sculptures adorning the facade of the pavilion are considered masterpieces of the period and contribute to making the building one of the most valuable examples of 18th-century civil architecture in Provence. An interesting anecdote concerns the use of the pavilion as a film set. Thanks to its architectural beauty and historical atmosphere, the Pavillon Daviel has been chosen as a location for several film and television productions, helping to spread its fame beyond the borders of Marseille.