The Saint-Giniez District in Marseille

The Origins of Saint-Giniez in Marseille

The charming Saint-Giniez district lies in the heart of Marseille's 8th arrondissement, in the southern neighbourhoods. Originally, this small village was not part of the Phocaean city. Indeed, until the middle of the 17th century, Saint-Giniez was a village set amid farmland. Marseille itself did not yet extend beyond its original Greek ramparts.

Dating back to the 5th century, the village, made up of bastides and a women's priory, takes its name from a Christian martyr called Genesius, or Saint Genès. Gradually, from the 17th century onwards, Marseille grew beyond its walls and absorbed the surrounding villages, including Saint-Giniez, which became one of its districts. In the 19th century, Marseille's bourgeoisie took over the area and turned it into a highly sought-after place to live. Villas and grand townhouses developed rapidly there, while the industries once based on the site relocated to the outskirts of the city or to other, more working-class districts.

Today, Saint-Giniez remains highly prized for its charming residences and prestigious buildings, as well as for its strategic location at the heart of Marseille's Carré d'Or, and it ranks among the best neighbourhoods of Marseille.

The Highlights of Saint-Giniez

One of the best-known landmarks in the Saint-Giniez district is undoubtedly the famous Stade Vélodrome, where Olympique de Marseille play their home matches. Not far away lies Prado Shopping, a large shopping centre with ready-to-wear boutiques, jewellers, and high-end dining spots.

Also located in Saint-Giniez, the Parc Chanot brings together the exhibition centre and Marseille's Congress Palace.

A lively hub, there is always something exciting going on. Entertainment options are never in short supply in Saint-Giniez. The Chambord cinema, for instance, screens a wide range of films. The district's bars and cafés welcome residents and passers-by looking to relax and unwind. Café des Thés offers teas from around the world in a serene, minimalist setting. La Terrasse du 8 serves high-quality food alongside an interesting wine list. As for the Colombia, it is a reliable favourite housed beneath an industrial glass roof.

The district's restaurants are, for the most part, renowned for the quality of their produce. The Italian restaurant Otto has its ingredients shipped directly from Italy and serves delicious dishes in an intimate setting. Villa Roca offers an eclectic, flavourful cuisine in a relaxing setting. Finally, the restaurant of Alexandre Mazzia, awarded three Michelin stars, offers an experience not to be missed.

Living in Saint-Giniez

The Saint-Giniez district is ideally located between Marseille's Carré d'Or and the second Prado. The public transport serving this central district of the Phocaean city makes it easy and quick to get around. Residents of Saint-Giniez can therefore easily reach the city's various beaches, Parc Borély, or the Vieux-Port of Marseille. It is therefore a prime destination for luxury real estate in Marseille.

However, the district is made up of two parts: Grand Saint-Giniez and Petit Saint-Giniez. Grand Saint-Giniez is the part located within the second Prado. It comprises numerous shops and grand townhouses with gardens. Petit Saint-Giniez, meanwhile, mainly consists of upscale residences and detached houses. It lies close to the Huveaune river and its green corridor. Villa Bagatelle, situated right next to Parc Borély, hosts numerous open-air concerts and other festive events.

Life in Saint-Giniez is pleasant, and everything a resident could need is close at hand: shops, a shopping centre, entertainment, and more. For families, being at the heart of a major city like Marseille guarantees quick access to schools and other amenities.

Property Prices in the Saint-Giniez District

The upmarket Saint-Giniez district in Marseille consists mainly of villas and high-end apartments. Prices average around €4,100 per square metre for an apartment and €5,005 for a house.

Thinking of buying a property in the Saint-Giniez district? Get in touch with the advisors at our real estate agency in Marseille so they can find the rare gem for you!