Le Panier neighbourhood, Marseille
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Le Panier - by Andrei koscina on Unsplash
Description
Le Panier is one of Marseille's oldest and best-known neighbourhoods. It is located just to the north of the Vieux Port and the Saint Jean quarter, the oldest inhabited parts of the Greek colony of Massilia. It is named after a street, the Rue du Panier, and has always been a welcoming area for immigrants, especially since the late 19th century with large numbers coming from Italy, Corsica and North Africa. The area was badly damaged during WW2 when Saint Jean was dynamited house by house by the occupying German forces. Since the late 1990's the area has seen major investment and revitalization, helped by increasing tourism.
Access & Transport
The Sadi Carnot and Republique Dames tram stops (T2, T3) are on the eastern edge, the Joliette (M2) metro station is at the northern tip and the Colbert (M1) metro station is a couple of minutes' walk east. There are also several bus lines serving the area. By car, the A55, A7 and A50 all provide convenient access.
Instructions & Recommendations
We suggest combining an exploration of the neighbourhood with a visit of the MuCEM (European & Mediterranean Civilizations Museum), the Cathédrale de la Major, and La Vieille Charité.
Environmental & Social
Urban environment with hardly any green space. The influx of tourism and investment help to rejuvenate the area and retain the neighbourhood's charm and architectural heritage. However, there are signs of budding over-commercialization.
Conclusion
There is something quintessentially Marseillais in Le Panier, it feels like a microcosm that is still very lively and genuine rather than overly gentrified and commercialized. In addition, there are several monuments in the neighbourhood, a long history, and it is very central, so it would be a shame not to explore it and see if you enjoy it - if not, then move on to another part of the city.
Key positive
One of the most interesting areas of the city with street art and independent shops
Centrally located
Key negative
Some people may feel uncomfortable there in the evenings
Suitability
Steep streets and stairs make the neighbourhood only partially accessible to wheelchair users. Suitable for all ages but better enjoyed for those >15yrs old.
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 20m
est. visit time:1h 15m
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo