The Basket

Le Panier is the oldest neighborhood in Marseille, a place that breathes history and tradition at every corner. Located north of the Vieux-Port, Le Panier is a maze of narrow streets, steep staircases, and hidden squares, which tell the stories of a city that has seen Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Crusaders, and sailors from every era pass through. The origins of Le Panier date back to 600 BC, when the Greeks from Phocaea founded the colony of Massalia, which we now know as Marseille. This ancient neighborhood, which developed on a promontory overlooking the port, quickly became the pulsating heart of the city, thanks to its strategic location and natural conformation that offered protection and control over maritime routes. Walking through the streets of Le Panier, one gets the impression of traveling back in time. The houses with colorful facades, often adorned with plants and flowers, retain traditional Provencal architecture. Many of these homes date back to the 17th and 18th centuries, when Marseille was a thriving commercial and maritime center. The narrow and winding streets are a legacy of the past, when they were designed to protect against pirate attacks and promote air circulation during the hot Mediterranean summers. One of the most emblematic places in Le Panier is the Vieille Charité, a monumental building designed by the architect Pierre Puget in the 17th century. Originally conceived as a hospice for the poor, today the Vieille Charité houses museums and cultural centers, including the Museum of Mediterranean Archaeology and the Museum of African, Oceanic, and Amerindian Arts. Its baroque chapel, with its characteristic elliptical dome, is a masterpiece of architecture that deserves a visit. Le Panier is also a neighborhood of great artistic and cultural vitality. Its streets are home to numerous artist studios, art galleries, and craft shops. This creative ferment is partly due to the presence of communities of artists who have found in Le Panier an ideal place to live and work. Cultural events, exhibitions, and performances take place throughout the year, helping to keep the vibrant spirit of the neighborhood alive. Another point of interest is the Place des Moulins, one of the oldest squares in Marseille, where numerous windmills once stood. Today, the square is a peaceful place, surrounded by houses and trees, offering a refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here you will also find the Church of Saint Laurent, another example of medieval architecture that has stood the test of time. Le Panier is also a place of historical memory, marked by the events of World War II. During the German occupation, the neighborhood was largely evacuated and many houses were demolished. The post-war reconstruction has preserved the historical imprint of the neighborhood, preserving its identity and ancient charm. One cannot speak of Le Panier without mentioning its social and political importance. The neighborhood has always been a melting pot of cultures and traditions, thanks to its position as a seaport that has attracted people from all over the world. This cultural melting pot is reflected in the diversity of its inhabitants and the richness of culinary, artistic, and religious traditions that animate the neighborhood. Le Panier is a symbol of inclusivity and coexistence, where old and new generations, long-time residents and newcomers, live together in a dynamic balance. It is said that the neighborhood takes its name from an inn, “Le Logis du Panier,” which was located on Rue du Panier, one of the main streets of the neighborhood. This inn was a reference point for sailors and merchants arriving at the port, and over time, the name extended to the entire neighborhood.