Magalone Garden

Discover the history of the Magalone Garden

At the heart of the very chic boulevard Michelet lies the Magalone Garden It's the kind of place that locals try to keep secret, yet can't resist sharing. A true haven of peace just steps away from the hustle and bustle, it sometimes feels like being in a private property because of how tranquil it is, in this garden as beautiful as it is uncrowded. A stroll in nature makes it an ideal park for children.

Why the Magalone? It was simply the name of a wealthy Marseille merchant who gave his name to the property, which has since become part of Marseille's heritage. It's a typical Provençal bastide built between 1790 and 1810 according to the plans of Pierre Puget (a famous Marseille sculptor, painter, and architect). It was listed as a historical monument in 1948.

Also located here is the City of Music. Around the 17th-century Marseille bastide, more than 1.4 hectares of gardens and to the south, a chapel. The current site of the Magalone Garden has gradually been encroached upon by urbanization over the centuries, losing much of its domain. However, the garden, typical of parks from the classical period, is particularly remarkable in many respects.

First and foremost, it is a masterpiece of Provençal gardens of the time. The layout was made following the plans of Édouard André, the famous French landscaper. The garden showcases the bastide but is also a discovery in its own right. From the bastide, two terraces extend into the garden. Two fountains representing the Rhône and the Saône, as well as numerous decorative stone elements, embellish the garden, such as the four statues representing the four seasons.

Visitors are shielded from the city's hustle and bustle, both so close and yet so far, by groves that surround the property. On either side, rows of tulip trees confirm the geometric composition of the garden. A serene, poetic, romantic place, or a true treasure for art and history enthusiasts, everyone will find a good reason to go and, above all, return to this little corner of nature in the city. Athletes who want to run in Marseille will not regret the effort in what is one of the most beautiful gardens in Marseille! Airlocal Marseille also thinks of those who just want to take a beautiful walk in Marseille: have you considered renting a Segway? Once on it, just roll with it! And for the more traditional, you have the choice between renting bikes or the bikes provided by the city, similar to the Vélib in Marseille.

Also, be sure to check the opening hours of the Magalone Garden, which change depending on the month!