Aubagne

History of the city of Aubagne

Aubagne, located in the Bouches-du-Rhône, carries the rich and complex history of Provence. Since antiquity, this territory was marked by Roman presence, as evidenced by remnants and the Aurelian Way that crossed the region. However, it was during the Middle Ages that the city truly began to take shape, with the construction of its castle and the establishment of the Saint-Pons Abbey nearby, reflecting Aubagne's growing importance in the Provençal landscape.

Over the centuries, Aubagne developed around its artisanal activities, notably pottery and ceramics, thanks to the abundance of clay in its soil. This artisanal tradition continues, and the city is still renowned today for its Provençal santons, these small terracotta figurines that populate Christmas cribs in the region and beyond.

The 19th century marked a turning point with the arrival of the railway, stimulating the local economy and integrating Aubagne more into regional trade networks. It is also during this time that one of the city’s most illustrious sons, Marcel Pagnol, was born, whose literary and cinematic works would later celebrate the Provençal terroir and contribute to Aubagne's fame.

In the 20th century, the city continued to expand and modernize while preserving its heritage and identity. Aubagne has established itself as an important cultural and economic center in the region, attracting visitors and new residents, charmed by its history, culture, and exceptional living environment.

Urban planning of the city of Aubagne

The urban planning of Aubagne reflects a balance between heritage preservation and modernization. The city has managed to integrate demographic growth and sustainable development, by enhancing its green spaces and renovating its historic center, while facilitating access to services and modern infrastructure. Urban development projects, such as the free tramway, demonstrate Aubagne's commitment to sustainable mobility and the quality of life of its residents. This mixed urban planning approach contributes to making Aubagne an attractive city, where the charm of Provence harmoniously blends with the demands of contemporary urban life.

Geography of the commune of Aubagne

Aubagne, nestled in the picturesque landscape of Bouches-du-Rhône, extends its geography between the foothills of the imposing Garlaban massif and the fertile banks of the Huveaune River, covering an area of 54.90 km². This strategic position, about fifteen kilometers east of Marseille, grants it a role as a crossroads between major cities in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, such as Aix-en-Provence and Toulon, enriching its geographical and cultural heritage.

Aubagne's terrain is characterized by the presence of typical Provençal limestone hills, offering exceptional panoramas and terrains suitable for hiking and nature discovery. The city is also distinguished by its fertile valleys, where agriculture benefits from the quality of the soil and the abundance of water, especially thanks to the Huveaune River that runs through the town, contributing to the irrigation of crops and the richness of local biodiversity.

Aubagne's geography thus promotes harmony between urban planning and natural spaces, allowing both residents and visitors to enjoy a pleasant living environment and preserved environmental quality. This symbiosis between city and nature makes Aubagne a privileged place, where natural heritage is at the heart of the community's development and identity.

Real estate trends in the city

The real estate trend in Aubagne reflects the increasing attractiveness of this commune in Bouches-du-Rhône, located near Marseille. With a privileged living environment, between mountain ranges and proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, Aubagne attracts a population seeking quality of life, contributing to the dynamism of the local real estate market. In 2023, the average price per square meter of €3704 reflects this dynamism, with a notable appreciation of properties, both for houses and apartments. Houses, in particular, have seen their price per square meter increase significantly over the past three years, a sign of strong demand for this type of property.

The distribution between apartments and houses shows a diversity in the real estate offerings, meeting the varied expectations of new residents and investors. The city offers a balance between peaceful residential areas and more urban sectors, thus providing a wide choice for all buyer profiles.

The stable price development, combined with the quality of life offered by Aubagne, enhances its attractiveness for families, professionals, and retirees. Aubagne's real estate market is characterized by sustained demand, driven by an exceptional environment and a rich local life, promising a lasting investment for its residents.

City politics

The politics of the city of Aubagne are marked by careful management attuned to the needs of its residents, under the leadership of its mayor, Gérard Gazay, who has been in office since 2014. The municipal administration is committed to sustainable development, improving quality of life, and supporting the local economy. Urban projects, such as the renovation of the downtown area and the expansion of pedestrian zones, reflect this desire to reconcile modernity with environmental respect. Aubagne also stands out for its dynamic cultural policy and support for local initiatives, strengthening its identity and social cohesion.

Places and monuments to visit in Aubagne

Aubagne, the hometown of Marcel Pagnol, is full of iconic places and monuments that testify to its rich cultural and historical heritage. Among them, the Marcel Pagnol Birthplace invites visitors on a journey through time to discover the world of this illustrious writer and filmmaker. This house, transformed into a museum, offers an immersion into the life and work of Pagnol, evoking his Provençal childhood that inspired so many of his stories.

The Petit Monde de Marcel Pagnol, a permanent exhibition located in the heart of the city, recreates famous scenes from his films and novels through santons and miniature settings, capturing the essence of Pagnol's work.

The historic center of Aubagne, with its narrow streets and ancient buildings, is another must-visit. The Clock Tower, dating from the 19th century, offers an exceptional panorama of the city and its surroundings. Nearby, the Saint-Sauveur Church, built in the 12th century, impresses with its architecture and sacred artworks.

Art and history enthusiasts will also appreciate visiting Argilla, the Aubagne Ceramics Museum, which celebrates the city's pottery expertise, recognized well beyond its borders.

Finally, the surrounding natural areas, like the Garlaban massif, offer breathtaking landscapes and hiking opportunities to explore the wild beauty of the Provence dear to Marcel Pagnol. Aubagne is thus a destination rich in discoveries, where every stone and path tells a story.

Cultural events

Aubagne, a city rich in traditions and history, is also a vibrant hub of cultural events that animate the life of its residents throughout the year. Among the standout events, the Aubagne International Film Festival shines, attracting filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world to celebrate film music and young cinema.

The city also honors its most famous son, Marcel Pagnol, through various celebrations that immerse visitors in the universe of the writer and filmmaker. Christmas markets and live nativity scenes embody the magic of Provençal traditions, while art exhibitions and concerts enrich Aubagne's cultural offerings, making the city a dynamic place of cultural meeting and exchange.