The Panier District in Marseille

The Origins of the Panier District in Marseille

Le Panier is the oldest district in Marseille, and it is where the city's story begins. 600 years before Christ, Massalia was founded by the Greeks on the very site of today's Panier. This historic district subsequently experienced successive waves of immigration that shaped its present-day character.

Set on a hill in central Marseille, right by the sea, the Panier district has, since the Middle Ages, been home to fishermen and sailors, and over the centuries it became a place of life for waves of immigrants arriving mainly from Italy and Corsica, and later from South America, North Africa and Vietnam, via the Comoros Islands.

The district then experienced growing economic expansion, partly thanks to wealthy merchants who settled there during the 16th century. The district's name comes from an old 17th-century inn whose sign bore a basket ("panier"). It first gave its name to the street where it stood, then to the district as a whole.

Later, during the Second World War, much of the Panier district was destroyed, but its streets have retained an undeniable charm. The district reinvented itself through the creation of artists' workshops and small craft shops. Today, Le Panier is a lively, colourful district, with cobbled streets and historic buildings, drawing tourists and lovers of Marseille's history alike.

The Highlights of the Panier District in Marseille

The Panier district is an open-air museum. Its walls are covered in street art, and as you wander its charming little cobbled lanes beneath colourful façades, you will discover a great many creators and craftspeople of every kind, as well as cultural venues that make Le Panier and Marseille truly striking. Indeed, La Vieille Charité, a former almshouse built in 1745, is now home to the Museum of Mediterranean Archaeology and the Museum of African, Oceanian and Native American Art, where numerous exhibitions can be discovered throughout the year. There is also the Pavillon Daviel, Marseille's former 18th-century law courts, L'Hôtel de Cabre, the oldest building in Marseille, and La Maison Diamantée, remarkable for the diamond-pointed rustication of its façade.

You will also find L'Hôtel Dieu, once the Hospital of the Holy Spirit, built in the 12th century and extended over time. Since 2013, it has become a five-star hotel. Place des Moulins is another unmissable spot, the highest point of this distinctive district, taking its name from the fifteen or so windmills that once stood there in the 17th century. A breathtaking view over the Mediterranean also adds to the district's appeal. The Panier district is known for having inspired the sets of the TV series "Plus belle la vie".

Living in the Panier District in Marseille

Wedged between the Vieux-Port and La Joliette, the Panier district is not officially a district in its own right, being formally included within the Hôtel de Ville and Grands Carmes districts, yet it promises its residents the very best the city has to offer. This popular, friendly district feels like a village at the heart of Marseille. Living in the Panier district means immersing yourself in the history and culture of Marseille.

A lively district, home to many artists and craftspeople, it is a creative district in constant evolution that continues to reflect the soul of the city. The Panier district has even become one of the chic neighbourhoods of Marseille.

A great many cultural events are held there throughout the year, such as art exhibitions, concerts and festivals. The most quintessentially Marseille of all Marseille's districts is very well served by transport links. It is a small corner of paradise where life is good.

Property Prices in the Panier District, Marseille

Marseille enjoys a dynamic, attractive property market, and the Panier district now enjoys a strong reputation. Located in Marseille's 2nd arrondissement, it is one of the districts where it is worth investing in the Phocaean city. Apartments dominate the local housing stock, with 96% apartments against 4% houses. The average price to purchase a property within this district is €4,000/m², and can reach over €5,400/m² for the most distinctive apartments, depending on the specifications on offer. Owing to their scarcity, houses command a slightly higher price.

What is more, the Panier district is an ideal spot for investing in period property. And, being highly popular with tourists, the Panier district can prove to be a prime location for seasonal rental investment.

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