Saint-Victor district

The must-sees of  Saint-Victor

Close to the Vauban district and Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, Saint-Victor is ideally located for history enthusiasts. This key district of Marseille has a rich cultural and historical heritage, as well as being a very pleasant area where life is good. Its main tourist attractions are the Abbaye Saint-Victor, the Jardin de la Colline Puget, the Musée du Savon de Marseille and its privileged access to the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde.

The Abbey of Saint-Victor is located near the Vieux-Port. The building dating from the 5th century in a Romanesque-Gothic style was founded by Jean Cassien. This little national treasure has gone through history and has experienced many historical events. One of his abbots was even elected pope in 1362 (Guillaume de Grimoard) better known as Urbain V. In 1968, the former mayor of Marseille Gaston Defferre decided to exhibit in the crypts of the abbey a collection of sarcophagus, formely exhibited in the museum of Château Borély.

Today, the Abbaye of Saint-Victor is the most important Christian art museum of the first millennium in Provence, just behind Arles museum city. You can visit it all year round except during religious services. Access is free, with the exception of visiting the sarcophagus.

Also discover the Puget Hill Garden. A real must-see in Saint-Victor district, this 1.3 hectare garden offers a children’s playground and large green spaces for those who wish to stroll under the Marseille sun.  The most audacious will even have the chance to climb the hill to its top, offering a breathtaking view of the city. It is even possible to continue the path on foot to Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica which nickname is ‘the good mother’, overlooking proudly the city while taking care of its locals.

Do you know the Marseille Soap Museum? Located on the docks of the Vieux-Port facing the  Mediterranean sea, the museum is housed in the former galley arsenal built by Louis XIV. Discover the story behind the creation of the emblematic savon de Marseille (Marseille soap) that we all know, through sensory areas and demonstration workshops. During the tour, you can even create your own soap to take home. There is also a shop with the complete collection of Marseille’s soap.

Take advantage of its proximity to the Vieux-Port for a walk. Take a breath of sea air while admiring the boats, and discover countless bars and restaurants of high quality. You will find all the local specialities based on fish and seafood, for a tasting on the terrace under the beautiful Marseille sun.