Bastide de la Guillermy, 17th century residential building in Les Aygalades, Marseille, France
The Bastide de la Guillermy is a 17th-century residential building in Les Aygalades with three distinctive turrets covered in glazed tiles. It stands alongside the A7 highway in northern Marseille, notable for its decorative tiled roof features.
The de Guillermy family built this grand residence in 1689 on land that once belonged to 16th-century poet Jean de La Ceppède. This connection to a literary figure underscores the site's cultural heritage.
The residence once hosted prominent figures like Paul Barras and later functioned as a police station until 2004. This varied history reflects its importance within the local community.
The building underwent extensive restoration work beginning in 2012 to preserve its architectural features and structural integrity. Its location next to the highway means traffic noise is significant, so plan your visit accordingly.
Despite the A7 motorway dividing its grounds during World War II, this residence remains one of Provence's rare examples of ceramic roof tiling. The glazed tiles were labor-intensively crafted by hand, giving the building its distinctive appearance.
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