Piazza Castellane

Place Castellane is one of the liveliest and most iconic places in Marseille, located in the heart of the 6th arrondissement. The square was inaugurated in 1774, thanks to the generosity of Henri-César de Castellane-Majastre, an aristocrat who donated the land for its construction. From the beginning, Place Castellane has been a central reference point for city traffic and social activities, a bustling crossroads connecting various main arteries of the city. One of the most characteristic elements of Place Castellane is the monumental fountain located in the center of the square, the Fontaine Cantini. This imposing work of art was donated to the city by Jules Cantini, a wealthy Marseille marble worker, and designed by the famous sculptor André-Joseph Allar. Completed in 1913, the fountain is decorated with statues representing three important rivers of Provence: the Durance, the Verdon, and the Rhône. At the top of the fountain, an allegorical figure symbolizes the city of Marseille, facing towards the sea, symbolizing the city’s vital connection to the Mediterranean.The design of the fountain draws inspiration from renowned works, such as the Trevi Fountain in Rome, paying homage to artists like Bernini and François Rude. This combination of styles and influences makes the Fontaine Cantini a true masterpiece of public art, capable of attracting the attention of passersby and serving as a focal point for the square. Over the years, Place Castellane has undergone several redevelopment interventions to adapt to modern needs. One of the most significant projects is the extension of the tram line, which has transformed the square into a more accessible and pedestrian area, improving the quality of life and the urban environment. This renovation project, started in 2023, aims to reduce car traffic, create shaded spaces, and offer new parking areas for citizens.The history of Place Castellane is rich in interesting anecdotes. For example, the original obelisk that stood in the center of the square in 1798 was moved to the Mazargues district in 1911 to make way for the new fountain. Additionally, the square is mentioned in Joseph Conrad’s novel “The Arrow of Gold,” published in 1919, which emphasizes its importance and charm in the collective imagination.