Inaugurated in 2006, Place Villeneuve-Bargemon is a vast pedestrian square located in Marseille’s 2nd arrondissement, just steps from the Old Port and at the foot of City Hall. Created as part of the underground extension of the Hôtel de Ville, this modern square spans over 20,000 m² and offers a tree-lined promenade shaded by plane trees and centuries-old olive trees—a tribute to the 26 centuries of history of the Phocean city.
Beneath the surface lies the Espace Villeneuve-Bargemon, designed by architect Franck Hammoutène. It houses modern facilities: the City Council chamber, meeting rooms, exhibition spaces, and a high-tech hemicycle. The project received the prestigious Équerre d’Argent Prize in 2006.
Archaeological excavations carried out during the construction uncovered ancient remains, including Greek baths and traces of fortifications dating back to the 6th century BC. The site thus links ancient heritage with contemporary urban planning, while also offering exceptional views of Notre-Dame de la Garde and hosting cultural events and public gatherings throughout the year.
The square is named after Christophe de Villeneuve-Bargemon, a 19th-century prefect and urban planner known for his role in transforming Marseille. Today, it embodies a bridge between past and modernity, in an open, functional, and history-filled setting.
Among its features is the statue of Pytheas and Euthymenes.
The Statue of Pytheas and Euthymenes – A Tribute to Marseille’s Ancient Explorers
Located opposite Marseille’s City Hall, on Place Villeneuve-Bargemon, the statue of Pytheas and Euthymenes pays homage to two famous explorers of Antiquity, both natives of Massalia, ancient Greek Marseille. This double-faced sculpture, set in a sober pedestrian setting, draws the eye and invites reflection on the city’s maritime history.
Two Pioneering Figures of Exploration
Pytheas, an astronomer and navigator of the 4th century BC, is considered one of the first scientists to explore the northern seas of Europe. His voyages may have taken him as far as Brittany, Great Britain, and possibly Iceland or Norway. He was the first to describe the phenomenon of tides and to mention the existence of a mysterious island called Thule.
Euthymenes, meanwhile, led expeditions along the coast of West Africa, notably studying the currents of the Senegal River. Together, the two men embody Marseille’s long tradition of adventure, discovery, and pursuit of knowledge.
A Janus Bust Full of Symbolism
The work takes the form of a Janus bust, with the two explorers shown back-to-back, each facing a different direction. This configuration symbolizes the many maritime routes opened from Marseille and the city’s dual scientific and maritme vocation. Their calm, focused expressions reflect wisdom, determination, and a thirst for knowledge—a symbolic and powerful representation despite its sober style.
An Early 19th-Century Creation
The idea for the statue dates back to 1804, initiated by architect Michel-Robert Penchaud. The work was first entrusted to sculptor Barthélémy-François Chardigny, but after his sudden death, it was completed in 1809 by Joseph-Antoine Chinard, a renowned Lyonnais sculptor. Over the years, the statue has been moved several times: it stood at the center of the Thiars fountain in 1978 (designed by architect Yvan-Pierre Gouirand), then for a time in front of Château Borély, before returning to Marseille’s historic center.
A Strong Testimony of Marseille’s Identity
More than a simple monument, this artwork recalls that Marseille, the oldest city in France, has always been turned toward the sea, exchanges, and discoveries. It embodies the city’s Greek heritage and maritime vocation, while honoring the first known scholars and explorers of the region.
Simple Travel and Recreation 